INDOLINE DERIVATIVES AS 5HT2C ANTAGONISTS

Abstract: A compound of formula (I) or a salt thereof, wherein: P represents phenyl, a quinoline or isoquinoline residue, or a 5-membered or 6-membered aromatic heterocyclic ring containing up to three heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen or sulphur; R<1> is hydrogen, C1-6 alkyl, halogen, CF3, NR<7>R<8> or OR<9> where R<7>, R<8> and R<9> are independently hydrogen, C1-6 alkyl or arylC1-6alkyl; R<2> is hydrogen or C1-6 alkyl; R<3> is C1-6 alkyl; n is 0 to 3; m is 0 to 4; and R<4> groups are independently C1-6 alkyl optionally substituted by one or more halogen atoms, C2-6 alkenyl, C2-6 alkynyl, C3-6 cycloalkyl, C3-6 cycloalkylC1-6 alkyl, C1-6 alkylthio, C3-6cycloalkylthio, C3-6 cycloalkylC1-6 alkylthio, halogen, nitro, CF3, OCF3, SCF3, SO2CF3, SO2F, formyl, C2-6 alkanoyl, cyano, optionally substituted phenyl or thienyl, NR<7>R<8>, CONR<7>R<8>, or OR<9> where R<7>, R<8> and R<9> are as defined for R<1>, CO2R<10> where R<10> is hydrogen or C1-6 alkyl. The compounds have 5HT2C receptor antagonist activity. Certain compounds of the invention also exhibit 5HT2B antagonist activity. 5HT2C/2B receptor antagonists are believed to be of potential use in the treatment of CNS disorders.

Description: INDOLI E DERIVATΓVES AS 5HT2C ANTAGONISTS This invention relates to compounds having pharmacological activity, processes for their preparation, to compositions containing them and to their use in the treatment of CNS disorders. WO 94/04533 (SmithKline Beecham pic) describes indole and indoline derivatives which are described as possessing 5HT2C receptor antagonist activity. A structurally distinct class of compounds has now been discovered, which have been found to have 5HT2C receptor antagonist activity. Certain compounds of the invention also exhibit 5HT2B antagonist activity. 5HT2C 2B receptor antagonists are believed to be of potential use in the treatment of CNS disorders such as anxiety, depression, epilepsy, obsessive compulsive disorders, migraine, Alzheimers disease, sleep disorders, feeding disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, panic attacks, withdrawal from drug abuse such as cocaine, ethanol, nicotine and benzodiazepines, schizophrenia, and also disorders associated with spinal trauma and/or head injury such as hydrocephalus. Compounds of the invention are also expected to be of use in the treatment of certain GI disorders such as IBS. The present invention therefore provides, in a first aspect, a compound of formula (I) or a salt thereof: wherein: P represents phenyl, a quinoline or isoquinoline residue, or a 5-membered or 6-membered aromatic heterocyclic ring containing up to three heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen or sulphur, R 1 is hydrogen, C\.£ alkyl, halogen, CF3, NR 7 R 8 or OR 9 where R 7 , R 8 and R 9 are independently hydrogen, Cι_6 alkyl or arylCι_6alkyl; R 2 is hydrogen or Cι_6 alkyl; R3 is Cι_ 6 alkyl; n is 0 to 3; m is 0 to 4; and R4 groups are independently C\.(. alkyl optionally substituted by one or more halogen atoms, C2-6 alkenyl, C2-6 alkynyl, C3.6 cycloalkyl, C3..6 cycloalkyl- C \ . alkyl, C . alkylthio, C3_6cycloalkylthio, C3.6 cycloalkylCi.g alkylthio, halogen, nitro, CF3, OCF3 ) SCF3, SO2CF3, SO2F, formyl, C2-6 alkanoyl, cyano, optionally substituted phenyl or thienyl, NR 7 R 8 , CONR 7 R 8 , or OR 9 where R 7 , R 8 and R 9 are as defined for R*, CO2 ^ where R 0 is hydrogen or C\.(j alkyl. C\. Alkyl groups, whether alone or as part of another group, may be straight chain or branched. The urea moiety can be attached to a carbon or any available nitrogen atom of the ring P, preferably it is attached to a carbon atom. Suitable moieties when the ring P is a 5-membered aromatic heterocyclic ring include isothiazolyl, isoxazolyl, thiadiazolyl and triazolyl. Suitable moieties when the ring P is a 6-membered aromatic heterocyclic ring include, for example, pyridyl, pyrimidyl or pyrazinyl. When P is quinoline, or an isoquinoline residue, the urea moiety can be attached at any position of the ring, preferably to the 4- or 5-position. Preferably P is 3-pyridyl. Preferably R* is hydrogen. Preferably R 2 and R^ are hydrogen. When R4 is phenyl or thienyl, optional substituents include those listed above for Rl. Preferred R^ groups include C\. alkyl, Cj-.^ alkylthio, halogen, CF3, and CO2RI where RIO is hydrogen or Cι_6 alkyl. When n is greater than 1 the resulting R groups can be the same or different Preferably n is 2, the indoline ring being disubstituted in the 5- and 6-positions. Most preferably the 6-position is substituted by chloro, bromo, or iodo, and the 5-position is substituted by Cι_6alkyl, in particular methyl, ethyl, propyl and isopropyl, or Cj.^alkylthio, in particular thiomethyl and thioethyl. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that when m is greater than 1 the resulting alkyl groups can be the same or different and can, if desired, be attached to the same carbon atom. Particular compounds of the invention include: 5-Ethylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline, 6-CMoro-5-methyM-(3-pyridycarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline and 4-chloro-5-methyl-l-(3- pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-(N ,N-Dimethylamino)- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline, 5-Iodo-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Nitro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline, 5-Methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline, 5-(2-Iso-ropyl l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4,6---McMoro-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Fluoro-5-methyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Iodo-5-methyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4-Iodo-5-methyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Bromo-5-methyl- l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4-Bromo-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Hιenyl- l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4,5-Dichloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6,7-DicWoro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Chloro- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5,6-Dichloro- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-(3-Thienyl)-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Trifluoromethyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Chloro-6-methyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-CUoro-5-methyl-l-(2-methyl-4-quinolyl-l-carbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-methyl- 1 -(4-pyridyl-carbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-methyl-l-(5-quinolylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-methyl- 1 -(3-methyl-5-isoxazolylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-(N,N-Dimethylammo)-l-(2-methyl-4-quinoliny 6-Chloro-5-methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4-CMoixv5-methyltMo-l-(3^yridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Bromo- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-ethyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-propyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-tert-butyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4-Chloro-5-tert-butyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-isopropyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-vinyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6^CMo-ro-5-ethylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-isopropylthio- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, Methyl-6-cWoro-l-(3-pyridylcarb-amoyl)-indoline-5-carboxylate, 6-Chloro-5-iodo- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)-indoline, 6-CWoro-5-methyl-l-(5-bromo-3-pyridylcarbamoyl)-indoline, 6^BronK>-5-propyltWo-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Bromo-5-ethylthio- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Bromo-5-methylthio- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The compounds of the formula (I) can form acid addition salts with acids, such as conventional pharmaceutically acceptable acids, for example maleic, hydrochloric, hydrobromic, phosphoric, acetic, fumaric, salicylic, citric, lactic, mandelic, tartaric and methanesulphonic. Compounds of formula (I) may also form N-oxides or solvates such as hydrates, and the invention also extends to these forms. When referred to herein, it is understood that the term 'compound of formula (I)' also includes these forms. Certain compounds of formula (I) are capable of existing in stereoisomeric forms including enantiomers and the invention extends to each of these stereoisomeric forms and to mixtures thereof including racemates. The different stereoisomeric forms may be separated one from the other by the usual methods, or any given isomer may be obtained by stereospecific or asymmetric synthesis. The invention also extends to any tautomeric forms and mixtures thereof. The present invention also provides a process for the preparation of a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, which process comprises: the coupling of a compound of formula (II); dl) with a compound of formula (UI); wherein n, m and P are as defined in formula (I), A and B contain the appropriate functional group(s) necessary to form the moiety -NR 2 CO when coupled, the variables R 1 ', R 2 ', R 3 ' and R 4 ' are R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 respectively, as defined in formula (I), or groups convertible thereto, and thereafter optionally and as necessary and in any appropriate order, converting any R ', R 2 ', R 3 ' and R 4 ' , when other than R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 respectively to R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 , interconverting R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 and forming a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Suitable examples of groups A and B include: (i) A is -N=C=O and B is hydrogen, (ii) A is -NR 2 'COL and B is hydrogen, (ϋi) A is -NHR 2 ' and B is COL, or (iv) A is halogen and B is -CONHR 2 ' wherein R 2 ' is as defined above and L is a leaving group. Examples of suitable leaving groups L include halogen such as chloro, bromo, imidazole, phenoxy or phenylthio optionally substituted, for example, with halogen. When A is -N=C=O and B is hydrogen the reaction is suitably carried out in an inert solvent for example dichloromethane or toluene at ambient or elevated temperature. When A is -NR2'COL and B is hydrogen or when A is -NHR2' and B is - COL, the reaction is suitably carried out in an inert solvent such as dichloromethane at ambient temperature optionally in the presence of a base, such as triethylamine or in dime ylformamide at ambient or elevated temperature. When A is halogen and B is CONHR 2 ', the reaction is suitably carried out in an inert solvent such as toluene at elevated temperature, optionally in the presence of a base. It should be appreciated that P in formula (II) represents rings P as defined in relation to formula (I) in which R* is as defined in relation to formula (I) or groups convertible thereto i.e. R*'. R 4 groups can be introduced at any suitable stage in the process, preferably R 4 groups are introduced at an early stage in the process. It should be appreciated that it is preferred that all groups R to R 4 are introduced before coupling compounds of formula (II) and (IH). Suitable examples of groups R*', R 2 ', R 3 ' and R 4 ' which are convertible to Rl, R 2 , R 3 and R 4 alkyl groups respectively, include acyl groups which are introduced conventionally and may be converted to the corresponding alkyl group by conventional reduction, such as using sodium borohydride in an inert solvent followed by hydrogenolysis in an inert solvent Hydrogen substituents may be obtained from alkoxycarbonyl groups which may be converted to hydrogen by hydrolysis and decarboxylation. When R 4 is hydroxy it is preferably protected in the compound of formula (II) as, for example, benzyl which is removed by hydrogenation. Suitable examples of a group R 2 ' which are convertible to R 2 , include alkoxycarbonyl and benzyl or r -methoxybenzyl which are converted to the group where R 2 is hydrogen using conventional conditions. Interconversions of R*, R 2 , R 3 and R 4 are carried out by conventional procedures. For example R* halo and R 4 halo may be introduced by selective halogenation of the ring P or the benzene ring of the indoline group using conventional conditions. It should be appreciated that it may be necessary to protect any R* to R 4 hydrogen variables which are not required to be interconverted. Suitable protecting groups and methods for their attachment and removal are conventional in the art of organic chemistry, such as those described in Greene T.W. "Protective groups in organic synthesis' New York, Wiley (1981). Compounds of formula (ϋ) in which A is NHR 2 ' are known compounds or can be prepared analogously to known compounds, see, for example, WO 92/05170 (SmithKline Beecham pic). Compounds of formula (II) in which A is -N=C=O may be prepared by treating a compound of formula (II) in which : i) A is amino, with phosgene or a phosgene equivalent, in the presence of excess base in an inert solvent ii) A is acylazide (i.e. CON3), via the nitrene, by thermal rearrangement using conventional conditions (ref L.S. Trifonov et al, Helv. Chim. Acta 198770262). iii) A is CONH2, via the nitrene intermediate using conventional conditions. Compounds of formula (II) in which A is NR 2 COL may be prepared by reacting a compound of formula (II) in which A is NHR 2 ' with phosgene or a phosgene equivalent in an inert solvent, at low temperature, if necessary in the presence of one equivalent of a base such as trithylamine. Compounds of formula (UI) may be prepared according to known methods or analogous to known methods, for example a) from the appropriate aniline via indole formation (Nordlander [JOC, 1981, 778] or Sundberg [JOC 1984, 249] routes) followed by reduction of the indole ring using sodium cyanoborohydride. It will be appreciated that in certain cases a mixture of indoles will be formed which can be separated at this stage or at a later stage. b) from the appropriate ortho-methyl nitrobenzene via indole formation (Leimgruber procedure Org Syn Coll vol VII, p34) followed by reduction of the indole ring. c) by aromatic substitution of a suitably protected indole/indoline precursor, for example alkylthio groups maybe introduced by thiocyanation of the indoline ring followed by hydrolysis and alkylation, or d) by transition metal catalysed coupling reaction using a suitably substituted indole/indoline precursor for example vinylation using the Stille procedure (JACS 1987, 5478) Compounds of formula (II) in which A is halogen and R 1 ' is hydrogen are commercially available. Novel intermediates of formula (HI) also form part of the invention. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts may be prepared conventionally by reaction witii the appropriate acid or acid derivative. N-oxides may be formed conventionally by reaction with hydrogen peroxide or percarboxylic acids. Compounds of formula (I) and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts have 5HT2B 2C receptor antagonist activity and are believed to be of potential use fo the treatment or prophylasis of CNS disorders such as anxiety, depression, epilepsy, obsessive compulsive disorders, migraine, Alzheimers disease, sleep disorders, feeding disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, panic attacks, withdrawal from drug abuse such as cocaine, ethanol, nicotine and benzodiazepines, schizophrenia, and also disorders associated with spinal trauma and/or head injury such as hydrocephalus. Compounds of die invention are also expected to be of use in the treatment of certain GI disorders such as IBS. Thus the invention also provides a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use as a therapeutic substance, in particular in the treatment or prophylaxis of the above disorders. The invention further provides a method of treatment or prophylaxis of the above disorders, in mammals including humans, which comprises administering to the sufferer a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In another aspect, the invention provides the use of a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment or prophylaxis of the above disorders. The present invention also provides a pharmaceutical composition, which comprises a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. A pharmaceutical composition of the invention, which may be prepared by admixture, suitably at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure, is usually adapted for oral, parenteral or rectal administration and, as such, may be in the form of tablets, capsules, oral liquid preparations, powders, granules, lozenges, reconstitutable powders, injectable or infusable solutions or suspensions or suppositories. Orally administrable compositions are generally preferred. Tablets and capsules for oral administration may be in unit dose form, and may contain conventional excipients, such as binding agents, fillers, tabletting lubricants, disintegrants and acceptable wetting agents. The tablets may be coated according to methods well known in normal pharmaceutical practice. Oral liquid preparations may be in the form of, for example, aqueous or oily suspension, solutions, emulsions, syrups or elixirs, or may be in the form of a dry product for reconstitution with water or other suitable vehicle before use. Such liquid preparations may contain conventional additives such as suspending agents, emulsifying agents, non-aqueous vehicles (which may include edible oils), preservatives, and, if desired, conventional flavourings or colourants. For parenteral administration, fluid unit dosage forms are prepared utilising a compound of the invention or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and a sterile vehicle. The compound, depending on the vehicle and concentration used, can be either suspended or dissolved in the vehicle. In preparing solutions, the compound can be dissolved for injection and filter sterilised before filling into a suitable vial or ampoule and sealing. Advantageously, adjuvants such as a local anaesthetic, preservatives and buffering agents are dissolved in the vehicle. To enhance the stability, the composition can be frozen after filling into the vial and the water removed under vacuum. Parenteral suspensions are prepared in substantially the same manner, except that the compound is suspended in the vehicle instead of being dissolved, and sterilization cannot be accomplished by filtration. The compound can be sterilised by exposure to ethylene oxide before suspension in a sterile vehicle. Advantageously, a surfactant or wetting agent is included in the composition to facilitate uniform distribution of the compound. The composition may contain from 0.1% to 99% by weight, preferably from 10 to 60% by weight, of the active material, depending on die method of administration. The dose of die compound used in the treatment of the aforementioned disorders will vary in the usual way with the seriousness of the disorders, the weight of the sufferer, and other similar factors. However, as a general guide suitable unit doses may be 0.05 to 1000 mg, more suitably 0.05 to 20.0 mg, for example 0.2 to 5 mg; and such unit doses may be administered more than once a day, for example two or three a day, so that the total daily dosage is in die range of about 0.5 to 100 mg; and such therapy may extend for a number of weeks or months. When administered in accordance with the invention, no unacceptable toxicological effects are expected with the compounds of the invention. The following Descriptions and Examples illustrate the preparation of compounds of d e invention. Description 1 Di-(5-indoIinyI)disuIphide (Dl) A mixture of indoline (5.95g, 50 mmol) and potassium thiocyanate (9.7g, 100 mmol) in dry methanol (100ml) was cooled to 0°C, and a solution of bromine (2.0ml, 52.5 mmol) in methanol (100ml) was added over 15mins. The mixture was then stirred at 0°C for lh 15mins, and tiien warmed to room temperature over 30mins. The mixture was filtered, diluted with water (200ml) and 10% sodium hydroxide (20ml) was added. The mixture was stirred overnight at room temperature, then extracted with dichloromethane. The aqueous phase was neutralised by addition of 5M hydrochloric acid and extracted again with dichloromethane. Organic extracts were separately evaporated and residues separately chromatographed on silica (200g) eluted with dichloromethane methanol to give the title compound (3.32g total, 44%) as a gum. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 3.00 (2H, t J=9), 3.58 (2H, t, J=9), 6.50 (IH, d, J=8), 7.10 (IH, d, J=8), 7.23 (IH, s). Description 2 l,l'-Diacetyldi-(5-indolinyl) disulphide (D2) To a solution of disulphide (Dl, 3.87g, 12.9 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (60ml) was added triethylamine (4.2ml, 30 mmol) and acetic anhydride (2.7ml, 28.4 mmol). The mixture was stirred overnight at room temperature, then washed twice with water, dried and evaporated. The residue was recrystallised from dichloromethane petrol to give the tide compound (3.81g, 77%), mp 187-193°C. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.24 (3H, s), 3.19 (2H, t, J=9), 4.08 (2H, t, J=9), 7.27 (IH, s), 7.30 (IH, d, J=8) 8.03 (IH, d, J=8). Description 3 l-Acetyl-5-mercaptoindoline (D3) A mixture of disulphide (D2, 3.8g, 9.9 mmol), triphenylphosphine (2.9g, 11 mmol) and cone, hydrochloric acid (3 drops) in 1,4-dioxan (30ml) and water (6ml) was stirred at 50-60°C for 4.5h. The mixture was evaporated and die residue was dissolved in dichloromethane and extracted with dilute sodium hydroxide solution. The basic extract was carefully acidified with cone, hydrochloric acid, and extracted witii dichloromethane. This extract was dried and evaporated to give the tide compound (3.38g, 88%) as a gum. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.24 (3H, s), 3.15 (2H, t, J=9), 3.43 (IH, s), 4.05 (2H, t, J=9), 7.13 (IH, s), 7.14 (IH, d, J=8), 8.09 (IH, d, J=8). Description 4 2-Trifluoromethylsulphonyloxyacetaldehyde diethyl acetal (D4) A solution of glycolaldehyde diediyl acetal (6g, 44.8 mmol) and triediylamine (7.05ml, 50 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (50ml) was cooled to -78°C. A solution of trifluoromethanesulphonic anhydride (13.9g, 49.2 mmol) in dichloromethane (50ml) was added dropwise over 30mins. The mixture was stirred at -78°C for 1 h, then washed twice with water, dried and evaporated to give the tide compound (10.64g, 89%) as an oil. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 1.25 (6H, t, J=7), 3.61 (2H, m), 3.77 (2H, m), 4.40 (2H, d, J=6), 4.75 (IH, t, J=6) Description 5 l-AcetyI-5-(2^-diethoxyethylthio) indoline (D5) A mixture of thiol (D3, 3.38g, 17.5 mmol), acetal trifluoromethanesulphonate (D4, 5.05g, 19 mmol) and diisopropylethylamine (3.2ml, 19 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (80ml) was stirred for 4.5h at room temperature. Further small portions of trifluσromethane sulphonate and of DIPEA (2 drops each) were added and stirring was continued for another lh before the mixture was washed sequentially with dilute hydrochloric acid, dilute sodium hydroxide, and water. The organic phase was dried and evaporated, and d e residue was chromatographed on silica (300g) eluted with ethyl acetate to give the title compound (4.14g, 76.6%), as a waxy solid, mp <52°C. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 1.20 (6H, t, J=7), 2.21 (3H, s), 3.07 (2H, d, J=6), 3.18 (2H, t, J=8), 3.56 (2H, q, J=7), 3.65 (2H, q, J=7), 4.06 (2H, t, J=8), 4.51 (IH, t, J=6), 7.26 (2H, m), 8.12 (lH, d, J=8) Description 6 N-Acetyl-5-ethylthioindoline (D6) To a solution of acetal (D5, 2.14g, 6.9 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (80ml) at -78°C was added titanium tetrachloride (1.48ml, 13.85 mmol) dropwise by syringe. The mixture was stirred for 2h at -78°C, 2h at 0°C and tiien overnight at room temperature. The mixture was then washed with water, saturated sodium bicarbonate solution, then water again, dried and evaporated. The residue was taken up in hot dichloromethane and petrol was added to precipitate polar material as a gum. The liquor was decanted off and addition of petrol/decantation was repeated twice. The final liquor was evaporated to give a mixture of the tide compound and 5-acetyl-6, 7- dihydro-5H-thieno[2,3-f] indole (0.3 lg), which was hydrolysed witiiout separation. Description 7 5-Ethylthioindoline (D7) The product mixture from description 6 was heated under reflux overnight with 10% aqueous sodium hydroxide (25ml) and ethanol (5ml). After cooling, the mixture was diluted with water and extracted with dichloromethane. The organic extract was washed with water, dried and evaporated. The residue was chromatographed on silica gel (5g) eluted witii 3% methanol/dichloromethane to remove polar material, and then centrifugally chromatographed on a 1mm silica plate eluted with 1:1 ether/petrol to give the title compound (70mg), as a gum. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 1.25 (3H, t, J=7), 2.79 (2H, q, J=7), 3.03 (2H, t, J=8), 3.59 (2H, t, J=8), 6.58 (IH, d, J=8), 7.12 (IH, d, J=8), 7.22 (IH, s) Description 8 N-(3-Chloro-4-methylphenyl)-2,2-diethoxyethyIamine (D8) 3-Chloro-4-methylaniline (10.26g, 72.5 mmol), sodium hydrogen carbonate (9.1g, 108 mmol) and bromoacetaldehyde diethyl acetal (13.1ml, 87.1 mmol) were stirred at reflux under Ar in ethanol (150ml) for 6 days. The mixture was then evaporated to dryness, partitioned between ether and water, and separated. The organic portion was washed with brine, dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated to a black oil. Bulb to bulb distillation of this crude material (oven temperature 175°C, ca O.lmmHg) then gave the tide compound (4.90g, 26%) as a colourless oil. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 1.23 (6H, t, J=7), 2.25 (3H, s), 3.22 (2H, d, J=5), 3.5-3.8 (4H, m), 4.70 (IH, t, J=6), 6.53 (IH, dd, J=8, 2), 6.72 (IH, d, J=2), 7.01 (IH, d, J=8) Description 9 6-Chloro-5-methylindole and 4-chloro-5-methylindole (D9) N-(3-chloro-4-methylphenyl)-2,2-diedιoxyethylamine (D8) (4.90g, 19 mmol) was stirred in trifiuoroacetic acid (25ml), and trifiuoroacetic anhydride (25ml) was added. The solution was stirred for 30min, diluted witii trifiuoroacetic acid (35ml), and stirred at reflux under Ar for 64h. Evaporation to dryness then gave a dark syrup, which was dissolved in methanol (50ml). Anhydrous potassium carbonate (5.25g, 38 mmol) was added, and the mixture was stirred for lh, diluted with (250 ml), and stirred until the emulsion had coagulated (30min). The semi-solid was filtered off and air-dried. Chromatography on silica, eluting with chloroform, gave the title mixture of compounds (0.88g, 28%), in approximate proportions 3:2, as a brown solid. Further chromatography on silica gel, eluting witii 0-4% ethyl acetate in petroleum ether (b.p. 60-80°C) gave pure 6-chloro isomer (0.1 lg), and the remainder (0.69g) still as a mixture. 6-chloro isomer: NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.45 (3H, s), 6.46 (IH, m), 7.14 (IH, m), 7.38 (IH, s), 7.47 (IH, s), 8.02 (IH, b) 4-chloroisomer (as component of mixture): NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.47 (3H, s), 6.62 (IH, m), 7.0-7.2 (3H, m), 8.1 (IH, b) Description 9 (Alternative Procedure) 6-Chloro-5-methyI indole An equal mixture of 6-chloro-5-methyl indole and 4-chloro-5-methyl indole was prepared from 3-chloro-4-methyl-aniline using the method of Sundberg. Crystallisation of this mixture (6.8g) afforded pure 6-chloro-5-methyl indole as a white crystalline solid (2.5g). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 2.45 (3H, s), 6.45 (IH, bs), 7.20 (IH, t, J 3Hz), 7.40 (IH, s), 7.50 (lH, s), 8.1 (lH, bs). Description 10 6-Chloro-5-methylindoline (D10) 6-Chloro-5-methylindole (D9) (0.109g, 0.66 mmol) was stirred at 15°C in glacial acetic acid (3ml), and sodium cyanoborohydride (0.125g, 1.98 mmol) was added. The mixture was stirred at 15°C for 2h, diluted with water (40ml), basified with solid NaOH, and extracted with ether. The extract was dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated to give the title compound (0.105g, 95%) as a light yellow solid. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.44 (3H, s), 2.95 (2H, t, J=8), 3.54 (2H, t, J=8), 6.62 (IH, s), 6.94 (lH, s) Description 11 --S-chloro-5-methyIindoline and 4-chIoro-5-methylindoline (Dll) These were prepared, as a mixture, from the mixture of 6-chloro-5-methylindole and 4-chloro-5-methylindole (0.40g, 2.4 mmol), prepared as described in Description 9, following the procedure of Description 10. This gave a mixture of the title compound (0.37 g, 91%) in approximate proportions 3:2. 4-chloroisomer (as component of mixture): NMR (CDCI3) δ 2.27 (3H, s), 3.07 (2H, t, J=8), 3.59 (2H, t, J=8), 6.44 (IH, d, J=8), 6.88 (IH, d, J=8). Description 12 l-Acetyl-5-(N,N-dimethylamino) indoline (D12) l-Acetyl-5-nitroindoline (0.9g, 4.37 mmol), EtOH (15ml), 37% aqueous formaldehyde (1ml), and 10% Pd-C (O.lg) were mixed and hydrogenated at 45 psi and rt overnight The mixture was filtered through celite and evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure to afford the title compound (0.89g, 100%). NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.20 (3H, s), 2.92 (6H, s), 3.18 (3H, t), 4.02 (2H, t), 6.61 (2H, m), 8.08 (IH, d). Description 13 5-(N,N-Dimethylamino)indoline l-Acetyl-5-(N,N-dimedιylamino)indoline (D12) (0.6g, 2.94 mmol) in cone. HCl (0.6ml) was heated over a steam bath for 45min. The mixture was partitioned between sat aq. K2CO3 (50ml) and CHCI3 (50ml) the organic solution dried (Na2SO4), evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure and purified by column chromatography (Si , EtOAc MeOH 5-10%) to afford the title compound (290mg, 61%) which was used directly in Example 4. Description 14 l-Acetyl-5-methylthioindoline (D14) A mixture of l-acetyl-5-mercaptoindoline (D3) (0.98g, 5.07 mmol), methyl iodide (0.35 ml, 5.6 mmol) and triethylamine (0.78 ml, 5.6 mmol) in dichlorometliane (25 ml) was stirred for 18 h at room temperature. The mixture was evaporated, and the residue was redissolved in dichloromethane and washed with dilute hydrochloric acid. The organic solution was dried and evaporated to give the title compound (0.98 g, 93%). NMR (CDC1 3 ) δ : 2.22 (3H, s), 2.48 (3H, s), 3.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.07 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.12 (2H, m), 8.14 (IH, d, J = 9) Description 15 N-(2,2<Dimethoxyethylamino)-4-(2-propyI) aniline (D15) A mixture of 4-(2-propyl)aniline (20.4g, 151 mmol) and 2,2-dimethoxyethanal (49.8g, 196 mmol) in ethanol (400 ml) was stirred with 5% palladium on charcoal (5 g) under hydrogen (1 atmos.) for 18 h. The mixture was then filtered through kieselguhr and evaporated. The residue was dissolved in ethyl acetate and washed with brine. The organic solution was dried and evaporated to give the title compound (33.69g, 100%) as a red oil. NMR (CDCI3) δ : 1.20 (6H, d, J = 6), 2.81 (IH, m, J = 6), 3.22 (2H, d, J = 5), 3.40 (6H, s), 3.75 (IH, broad), 4.58 (IH, t, J = 5), 6.59 (2H, d, J = 8), 7.05 (2H, d, J = 8). Description 16 5-(2-ProρyI)-l-trifluoroacetyl indole (D16) The acetal (D15, 1.02 g, 4.55 mmol) was heated in trifiuoroacetic acid/trifluoroacetic anhydride by the method of J. E. Nordlander et al (/. Org. Chem, 1981, 46, 778). The crude product was chromatographed twice on silica gel eluted with 1 : 1 dichloromethane petrol to give the title compound (0.25g, 22%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 1.29 (6H, d, J = 7), 3.00 (IH, m, J = 7), 6.68 (IH, d, J = 5), 7.27 (IH, d, J = 7), 7.42 (2H, s), 8.32 (IH, d, J = 7). Description 17 5-(2-propyl)indole (D17) The trifluoroacetyl indole (D16, 0.25g, 0.99 mmol) was stirred with potassium carbonate (0.20g, 1.5 mmol) in methanol (7.5 ml) at 55° C for 1.5 h. Solvent was evaporated and d e residue was partitioned between water and dichloromethane. The organic extract was dried and evaporated to give the title compound (0.14g, 86%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 1.30 (6H, d, J = 7), 3.00 (IH, m, J = 7), 6.48 (IH, m), 7.01 (IH, m), 7.09 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.20 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.49 (IH, s), 7.71 (IH, broad). Description 18 5-(2-Propyl)indoline (D18) To a cooled solution of indole (D17, 0.60g, 3.75 mmol) in glacial acetic acid (12 ml) was added sodium cyanoborohydride (1.20g, 19.1 mmol) in portions. The mixture was stirred under argon for 4h, then diluted witii water and basified with 10% aqueous sodium hydroxide. The mixture was extracted with dichloromethane and d e extract was dried and evaporated. After combining with material from a previous experiment (from 0.14g indole) the crude product was chromatographed on silica gel eluted with diethyl ether to give the title compound (0.62g, 84%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 1.23 (6H, d, J = 7), 2.81 (IH, m, J = 7), 2.91 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.38 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.59 (IH, s), 6.47 (IH, d, J = 8), 6.85 (IH, d, J = 8), 6.98 (IH, s). Description 19 5-Methylthioindoline (D19) The N-acetylindoline (D14, 0.98g, 4.73 mmol) was heated under reflux with 10% aqueous sodium hydroxide (75 ml) in ethanol (25 ml) for 21h. After cooling, the mixture was extracted three times with dichloromethane, and the extracts were combined, dried and evaporated to give the title compound (0.66g, 85%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 1.62 (IH, broad), 2.42 (3H, s), 3.01 (2H, t, J=8), 3.58 (2H, t, J=8), 6.58 (IH, d, J=8), 7.07 (IH, d, J=8), 7.17 (IH, S). Description 20 2,6-Dichloro-4-nitrotoluene (D20) The title compound was prepared according to the route of Weinstock et al, patent U.S. 3,423,475. NMR (250 MHz, CDCI3) δ : 8.15 (s, 2H, Ar), 2.59 (s, 3H, CH3). Description 21 4-Amino-2,6-dichlorotoIuene (D21) To a stmred solution of SnCl2 (3.7g, 19.4 mmol) in cone. HCl (10 ml) was added portionwise (D20), (lg, 4.8 mmol). The mixture was heated to 80° C for 4 hours, cooled and made strongly basic with 40% NaOH. The aqueous was extracted into ether. The organics were dried and concentrated to afford the title compound as a tight brown oil, 0.68g (90%). NMR (250MHz, CDCI3) δ : 6.60 (s, 2H, Ar), 3.63 (br, 2H, NH 2 ), 2.63 (s, 3H, - CH3). Description 22 4,6-Dichloro-5-methylindoline (D22) The title compound was prepared from D21 according to Sundberg sequence of reactions, followed by reduction. NMR (250 MHz, CDCI3) δ : 6.52 (s, IH, Ar), 3.80 (br, IH, NH), 3.60 (t, 2H, J = 8Hz), 3.10 (t, 2H, J = 8Hz), 2.35 (s, 3H, CH3) Description 23 6-Fluoro-5-methy-indole (D23) The title compound was prepared from 3-fiuoro-4-methylaniline using the Sundberg sequence of reactions. (J.O.C. 1984, 2, 249) Description 24 6-Fluoro-5-methylindoline (D24) The tide compound was prepared by reduction of 6-fluoro-5-methylindole (D23) using a procedure similar to that in Description 30. NMR (CDCI3) δ : 2.15 (3H, s), 2.95 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.56 (2H, t, J = 8), 6.31 (IH, d, J = 8), 6.89 (IH, d, J = 8). Description 25 4-Iodo-5-methylindoIe and 6-iodo-5-methvlindole (D25) The title compounds were prepared as a mixture from 3-iodo-4-methylaniline using the Sundberg sequence of reactions. (J.O.C. 1984, 42, 249) Description 26 4-Iodo-5-methylindoIine and 6-iodo-5-methylindoline (D26) The title compounds were prepared as a mixture by reduction of a mixture of 4-iodo- 5-methylindole and 6-iodo-5-medιylindole (D25) using a procedure similar to Description 30. Description 27 4-Bronκ>-5-methylindole and 6-bromo-5-methylindole (D27) The title compounds were prepared as a mixture from 3-bromo-4-methylaniline using the Sundberg sequence of reactions. (J.O.C. 1984, 2. 249) Description 28 4-Bromo-5-methylindoline and 6-bromo-5-methylindoline (D28) The title compounds were prepared as a mixture by reduction of a mixture of 4- bromo-5-methylindole and 6-bromo-5-methylindole (D27) using a procedure similar to Description 30. Description 29 5-Phenyl Indole (D29) The title compound was prepared from 5-bromoindole and benzeneboronic acid by die method of Suzuki (N. Miyaura, T Yanagi, A Suzuki, Synth. Commun, 1981, 513) in 87% yield. NMR (CDCI3) δ : 6.59-6.65 (IH, m), 7.21-7.50 (6H, m), 7.61-7.70 (2H, m), 7.86 (lH, s), 8.10-8.30 (lH, br s). Description 30 5-Phenyl Indoline (D30) 5-Phenylindole (D29) (0.85g, 4.4 mmoles) was dissolved in glacial acetic acid (20 ml) and treated witii sodium cyanoborohydride (1.34g, 22 mmoles) at ambient temperature for 2 hrs. Water (100 ml) was added and die mixture basified with sodium hydroxide. Extraction with dichloromethane gave die titie compound (D30) (0.8g, 93%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 2.40-2.90 (IH, br s), 3.10 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.65 (2H, t, J = 8), 6.70 (IH, d, J = 10), 7.20-7.65 (7H, m). Description 31 4,5-Dichloroindole (D31) 4,5-dichlorisatin (8.4g, 39 mmoles) was treated with lithium aluminium hydride (15.0g, 390 mmoles) in tetrahydrofuran (500 ml) under reflux. Aqueous work up and treatment of the intermediate hydroxy indoline compound with p-toluene sulphonic acid in toluene gave the title compound (D31) (1.34g, 19%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 6.60-6.70 (IH, m), 7.19-7.35 (3H, m), 8.10-8.45 (IH, br s). Description 32 4,5-DichloroindoIine (D32) 4,5-Dichloroindole (D31) was reduced in the usual way with sodium cyanoborohydride in glacial acetic acid to give the titie compound (D32) (1.22g, 90%) NMR (CDCI3) δ : 3.10 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.61 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.76-3.91 (IH, br s), 6.41 (IH, d, J = 10), 7.10 (IH, d, J = 10). Description 33 6,7-DichIoroindole (D33) Reduction of 6,7-dichloroisatin with lithium aluminium hydride in the usual way gave the titie compound (D33) (4.8g, 62%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 6.55-6.62 (IH, m), 7.20 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.21-7.28 (IH, m), 7.49 (IH, d, J = 8), 8.25-8.55 (IH, br s) Description 34 6,7-Dichloroindoline (D34) 6,7-Dichloroindole (D33) was reduced in the usual way with sodium cyanoborohydride in glacial acetic acid to give the title compound (D34) (1.14g, 67%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 3.10 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.65 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.01-4.15 (IH, br s), 6.71 (lH, d, J = 8), 6.81 (lH, d, J = 8). Description 35 5-Chloroindoline (D35) 5-Chloroindole was reduced in the usual way with sodium cyanoborohydride in glacial acetic acid to give the title compound (D35) (0.96g, 94%) NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 3.01 (2H, J = 8), 3.55 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.67-3.80 (IH, br s), 6.52 (IH, d, J = 8), 6.93 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.05 (IH, s). Description 36 6-ChloroindoIine (D36) 6-Chloroindole was reduced in the usual way with sodium cyanoborohydride in glacial acetic acid to give the titie compound (D36) (1.18g, 94%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 2.95 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.11 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.70-3.93 (IH, br s), 6.60 (IH, s), 6.64 (IH, d, J - 8), 6.99 (IH, d, J = 8). Description 37 2-Nitro-4,5-dichlorotoluene (D37) Nitration of 3,4-dichlorotoluene in a mixture of concentrated sulphuric and nitric acids gave the title compound (D37) (4.2g, 41%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 2.60 (3H, s), 7.49 (IH, s), 8.15 (IH, s). Description 38 5,6-DichloroindoIe (D38) The title compound was prepared using the Leimgruber procedure (A-D. Batcho, W. Leimgruber, Organic Synthesis Collective Volume (V-DI), p34) on 2-nitro-4,5- dichlorotoluene (D37) to give (D38) (1.3g, 72%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 6.48-6.52 (IH, m), 7.22-7.25 (IH, m), 7.50 (IH, s), 7.73 (IH, s), 8.01-8.31 (lH, br s). Description 39 5,6-Dichloroindoline (D39) 5,6-Dichloroindole (D38) was reduced in the usual way with sodium cyanoboro¬ hydride in glacial acetic acid to give the title compound (D39) (1.18g, 90%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 3.01 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.63 (IH, t, J = 8), 3.75-3.91 (IH, br s), 6.70 (IH, s), 7.15 (IH, s). Description 40 5- (3-Thienyl) indole (D 40) The title compound was prepared as in (D29) from 5-bromoindole and thiophene-3- boronic acid to give (D40) (1.1 g, 100%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 6.55-6.61 (IH, m), 7.19-7.51 (6H, m), 7.88 (IH, s), 8.10-8.28 (IH, br s). Description 41 5- (3-Thienyl) indoline (D41) 5-(3-Thienyl) indole D40 was reduced in the usual way with sodium cyano borohydride in glacial acetic acid to give the title compound (D41) (l.Og, 100%). NMR (CDCI3) δ: 3.09 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.62 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.70 - 3.92 (IH, br s), 6.68 (IH, d, J = 6), 7.25 - 7.45 (5H, m). Description 42 5- Trifluoromethylindole (D42) The title compound was prepared from 4-aminobenzotrifluoride using the method of Sundberg to give (D42) (0.22g). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 6.51 -6.60 (IH, m), 7.21 - 7.30 (IH, m), 7.35 - 7.42 (2H, m), 7.88 (IH, S), 8.15 - 8.45 (IH, br s). Description 43 5-Trifluoromethylindoline (D43) 5-Trifluoromethylindole (D42) was reduced in the usual way with sodium cyanoborohydride in glacial acetic acid to give the title compound (D43) (0.18g, 83%) NMR (CDCI3 δ : 3.08 (2H, t J = 8), 3.65 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.88 - 4.12 (IH, br s), 6.60 (IH, d, J = 6), 7.23 - 7.35 (2H, m). Description 44 5-Chloro-6- methylindole (D44) The title compound was prepared using the Leimgruber procedure on 2-chloro-5-nitro para-xylene to give (D44) (0.64g, 72%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 2.65 (3H, s), 6.62-6.68 (IH, m), 7.30 - 7.34 (IH, m), 7.40 (IH, s), 7.81 (IH, s), 8.10 - 8.30 (IH, br s). Description 45 5-Chloro-6-methylindoline (D45) 5-Chlαro-6-methylindole (D44) was reduced in the usual way with sodium cyanoborohydride in glacial acetic acid to give the tide compound (D45) (0.61, 94%). NMR (CDCI3) δ : 2.22 (3H, s). 2.95 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.51 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.60 - 3.75 (IH, br s), 6.51 (IH, s), 7.03 (IH, s). Description 46 N-Aoetyl-5-(N,N-dimethylaιnino)indoIine (D46) A mixture of N-Acetyl-5-nitroindoline (lg, 4.9mmol), aqueous formaldehyde (37%) (1.1ml) and 10% palladium on carbon (0. lg) in ethanol (18ml) was hydrogenated at 45 psi overnight Filtration through celite, followed by evaporation of the solvent under reduced pressure afforded the titie compound (D46) as a white solid (0.96g, 97%). H NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.2 (3H, s, N-Ac), 2.91 (6H, s, NMe 2 ), 3.18 (2H, t), 4.04 (2H, t), 6.6 (2H, m), 8.09 (IH, d). Description 47 6-Chloro-5-methyIthioindole and 4-chloro-5-meth ylthioindole 3-Chloro-4-methylthioaniline (Lauterbach et al, patent Ger. Offen. 1, 141, 183) was converted to a 1:1 mixture of the titie compounds by d e method developed by Sundberg (J. Org. Chem., 1984, 42, 249) in an overall yield of 34%. The isomers were separated by chromatography on silica-gel using 15% diethylether in petroleum ether (40-60°) to give in order of elution the 6-chloro isomer and the 4-chloro isomer. 6-Chloro-5-methylthioindole: NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.50 (3H, s), 6.50 (IH, m), 7.18 (IH, m), 7.47 (IH, s), 7.57 (IH, s), 8.12 (IH, b). 4-chloro-5-methylthioindole: NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.51 (3H, s), 6.62 (IH, m), 7.20- 7.30 (3H, m), 8.24 (IH, b). Description 48 6-Chloro-5-methylthioindoline (D48) 6-Chloro-5-methylthioindole (D47) (0.72g, 3.65mmol) was treated witii sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to give the title compound (0.72g, 98%) as a pale yellow oil. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 2.40 (3H, s), 3.00 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.59 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.81 (IH, b), 6.66 (IH, s), 7.13 (IH, s). Description 49 4-Chloro-5-methylthioindoline (D49) 4-Chloro-5-methylthioindole (D47) (0.89g, 4.49mmol) was treated with sodium cyanoborohydride according to the procedure of Description 10 to afford the title compound (0.90g, 100%) as a pale yellow oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 2.40 (3H, s), 3.10 (2H, t J = 8), 3.64 (IH, t, J = 8), 3.88 (IH, b), 6.48 (IH, d, J = 7), 7.09 (IH, d, J = 7). Description 50 5-Bromoindoline (D50) 5-Bromoindole (0.7g, 3.6mmol) was treated witii sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to yield the title compound (0.5g, 71%). NλlR (D 6 -DλlSO) δ : 2.91 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.40 (2H, t, J = 8), 5.64 (IH, s), 6.42 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.02 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.13 (IH, s). Description 51 6-Chloro-5-ethylindole and 4-chloro-5-ethylindole 3-Chloro-4-ethylaniline (J.P. Lampooy et al, J. Med. Chem, 1973, Jϋ, 765) was converted to a 2:1 mixture of the title compounds by the mediod developed by Sundberg (J. Org. Chem, 1984, 42, 249) in an overall yield of 21%. Fractional crystallisation from petroleum ether gave the 6-chloro isomer (0.72g). The mother liquors were concentrated to afford a mixture of the title compounds. 6-chloro-5-ethylindole: NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.30 (3H, t, J= 8), 2.83 (2H, q, J=8), 6.48 (IH, m), 7.17 (IH, m), 7.41 (IH, s), 7.48 (IH, s), 8.04 (IH, b) 4-Chloro-5-ethylindole -(as component of a mixture): NMR (CDCl3) δ: 1.31 (3H, t, J = 8), 2.83 (2H, J = 8), 6.62 (IH, m), 7.10 - 7.20 (3H, m), 8.10 (IH, b). Description 52 6-Chloro-5-ethylindoline (D52) 6-Chloro-5-ethylindole (D51) (0.62g, 3.46mmol) was treated with sodium cyanoborohydride as in the mediod of Description 10 to give the title compound (0.485g, 77%) as a yellow oil. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 1.17 (3H, t, J = 8), 2.62 (2H, q, J = 8), 2.96 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.53 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.72 (IH, b), 6.60 (IH, s), 6.95 (IH, s). Description 53 6-Chloro-5-propylindole and 4-Chloro-5-propylindole 3-Chloro-4-propylaniline (prepared according to general procedure described by J. P. Lampooy et al, J. Med. Chem, 1973, 16, 765) was converted to a 7:5 mixture of the title compounds by die method developed by Sundberg (J. Qrg. Chem., 1984, 42, 249) in an overall yield of 14%. The isomers were separated by chromatography on silica-gel using 5% ethyl acetate in petroleum ether (60-80°C) to give in order of elution the 6- chloro isomer and the 4-chloro isomer. 6-Chloro-5-propylindole: NλlR (CDCl3)δ: 1.00 (3H, t, J = 8), 1.68 (2H,. m, J = 8), 2.78 (2H, t, J = 8), 6.47 (IH, m), 7.16 (IH, m), 7.39 (IH, s),7.45 (IH, s), 8.04 (IH, b). 4-Chloro-5-propylindole NMR (CDCI3) δ:1.03 (3H, t, J = 8), 1.69 (2H, m, J = 8), 2.79 (2H, t J = 8), 6.63 (IH, m), 7.12-7.25 (3H, m), 8.20 (IH, b). Description 54 6-Chloro-5-propylindoline (D54) 6-chloro-5-propylindole (D53) (0.063g, 0.33mmol) was treated witii sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to give the titie compound (0.06g, 94%) as a yellow oil. NMR (CDCI3) δ: 0.95 (3H, t, J = 8), 1.60 (2H, m, J = 8), 2.58 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.00 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.55 (2H, t, J = 8), 6.61 (IH, s), 6.93 (IH, s). Description 55 6-Chloro-5-teιf-butylindole and 4-Chloro-5-te -butylindoIe 3-Chloro-4-tert-butylaniline (prepared by the general procedure described by J. P. Lampooy et al, J. Med. Chem., 1973, 16, 765) was converted to a 5:4 mixture of the tide compounds by the method developed by Sundberg (J. Org. Chem., 1984, 42. 249) in an overall yield of 37%. The isomers were separated by column chromatography on silica gel using 5% ethylacetate in petroleum ether (60-80°C) to give in order to elution the 6-Chloro isomer and die 4-Chloro isomer. 6-Chloro-5-r -butylindole: NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.54 (9H, s), 6.50 (IH, m), 7.17 (IH, m), 7.41 (IH, s), 7.69 (IH, s), 8.02 (IH, b). 4-Oιloro-5-fc?/τ-butylindole: NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.55 (9H, s), 6.70 (lH, m), 7.15-7.28 (3H, m). Description 56 6-ChIoro-5-tert-butylindoline (D56) 6-Chloro-5--ferr-butylindole (D55) (0.29 g, 1.40mmol) was treated witii sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to give the tide compound (0.21 g, 72%) as a yellow oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.38 (9H, s), 2.89 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.46 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.60 (IH, b), 6.53 (IH, s), 7.09 (IH, s). Description 57 4-ChIoro-5-tert-butylindoline (D57) 4-Chloro-5-ferf-butylindole (D56) (0.63 g, 3.06 mmol) was treated witii sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to give the title compound (0.5 g, 79%) as a yellow oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.44 (9H, s), 3.09 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.58 (2H, b, J = 8), 3.76 (IH, b), 6.47 (IH, d), 7.07 (IH, d). Description 58 6-Chloro-5-isopropylindole and 4-Chloro-5-isopropylindole 3-ChlOT -4-isopropylaniline (prepared by general procedure described by J. P. Lampooy et al, J. Med. Chem., 1973, 6.765) was converted to a 7:6 mixture of the title compounds by the method developed by Sundberg (J. Org. Chem., 1984, 42, 249) in an overall yield of 51%. Fractional crystallisation from petroleum ether gave pure 6-chloro isomer (1.27 g) and die remainder as a mixture. 6-Chloro-5-isopropylindole: NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.31 (6H, d, J = 8), 3.43 (IH, m), 6.48 (IH, m), 7.13 (lH,m), 7.37 (IH, s), 7.54 (IH, s), 7.98 (IH, b). 4-Chloro-5-isopropylindole-(as component of mixture): NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.29 (6H, d, J = 8), 3.58 (IH, m), 6.63 (IH, m), 7.08-7.20 (3H, m), 8.02 (IH, b). Description 59 6-Chloro-5-isopropylindoline (D59) 6-Chloro-5-isopropylindole (D58) (0.5g, 2.60mmol) was treated with sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to give the title compound (0.4g, 79%) as a yellow oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.19 (6H, d, J = 8), 2.96 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.30 (IH, m), 3.52 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.65 (IH, b), 6.57 (IH, s), 7.02 (IH, s). Description 60 l-Acety!-6-chloro-5-iodoindoline (D60) l-Acetyl-6-chloroindoline (0.3g, 1.53mmol) and iodine monochloride (2.48g, 15.3mmol) in acetic acid (25ml) were heated under reflux for 48 hours. After cooling the mixture was partitioned between ethyl acetate and 10% aqueous NaOH. The organic extract was washed with aqueous Na2SO3 dried (Na2SO4) & evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure. Chromatography on silica gel using dichloromethane afforded the tide compound (0.19g, 39%). NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 2.20 (3H, s), 3.13 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.08 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.59 (IH, s), 8.32 (IH, s). Description 61 l-Acetyl-6-chloro-5-vinylindoline (D61) l-Acetyl-6-chloro-5-iodoindoline (D60) (0.19g, O.oϊnmol) was treated with vinyl tributyltin as in the method developed by Stille (A. M. Echavarren and J. K. Stille, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 1987, 1Q2, 5478) to give the titie compound (0.13g) as a brown oil which was used without further purification. N-MR (CDCI3) δ: 2.20 (3H, s), 3.13 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.09 (2H, b, J = 8), 5.27 (IH, d, J = 10), 5.62 (IH, d, J = 15), 7.36 (IH, s), 8.20 (IH, s). Description 62 6-Chloro-5-vinylindoline (D62) l-Acetyl-6-chloro-5-vinylindoline (D61) (0.13g), and 10% aqueous NaOH (5ml) were heated at reflux in ethanol (20ml) for 2.5 hours, cooled and treated with an excess of saturated aqueous NH4CI. The mixture was partitioned between ethyl acetate and brine. The organic extracts were dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure affording the title compound as a brown oil (0.13g) which was used without further purification. NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 3.02 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.60 (2H, t, J = 8), 5.14 (IH, d, J = 11), 5.55 (IH, d, J = 15), 6.59 (IH, s), 7.34 (IH, s). Description 63 6-Chloro-5-ethylthioindole and 4-Chloro-5-ethyIthioindole 3-Chloro-4-ethylthioaniline (Lauterbach etal, patent Ger. Offen. 1, 141, 183) was converted to a 5:3 mixture of the titie compounds by the method developed by Sundberg (J. Org. Chem., 1984, 42, 249) in an overall yield of 11%. The isomers were separated by chromatography on silica gel using 0-10% ethyl acetate in petroleum ether (60-80°C) to give in order of elution the 6-chloro isomer and the 4- chloro isomer. 6-Chloro-5-ethylthioindole: NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.29 (3H, t, J = 7), 2.93 (2H, q, J = 7), 6.47 (IH, m), 7.15 (IH, m), 7.43 (IH, s), 7.71 (IH, s), 8.13 (IH, b). 4-Chloro-5-ethylthioindole: NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.30 (3H, t, J = 7), 2.94 (2H, q, J = 7), 6.67 (IH, m), 7.18-7.28 (3H, m), 8.30 (IH, b). Description 64 6-Chloro-5-ethylthioindoline (D64) 6-Chlσro-5-ethylthioindole (D63) (0.35g, 1.67mmol) was treated with sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to give the titie compound (0.18g, 57%) as a yellow oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.24 (3H, t, J = 7), 2.83 (2H, q, J = 7), 3.00 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.60 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.87 (IH, b), 6.68 (IH, s), 7.20 (IH, s). Description 65 6-Chloro-5-isopropylthioindole & 4-Chloro-5-isopropylthioindole 3-Chloτo-4-isopropylthioaniline (Lauterbach et al, patent Ger. Offen. 1, 141, 183) was converted to a 2:1 mixture of the title compound by the method developed by Sundberg (J. Org. Chem., 1984, 42, 249) in an overall yield of 30%. The isomers were separated by chromatography on silica gel using 10-40% diethyl ether in petroleum ether (60-80°C) to give in order of elution the 6-chloro isomer and die 4- chloro isomer. 6-Chloro-5-isopropylthioindole: NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.28 (6H, d, J = 7), 3.43 (IH, m, J = 7), 6.51 (IH, m), 7.18 (IH, m), 7.48 (IH, s), 7.83 (IH, s), 8.26 (IH, b). 4-Chloro-5-isopropylthioindole: NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.29 (6H, d, J = 7), 3.43 (IH, m, J = 7), 6.67 (IH, m), 7.20-7.30 (3H, m), 8.32 (IH, b). Description 66 6-Chloro-5-isopropylthioindoline (D66) 6-Chloro-5-isopropylthioindole (D65) (0.49g, 2.16mmol) was treated widi sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to give the title compound (0.35g, 71%) as a yellow oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ: 1.24 (6H, d, J = 7), 2.97 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.28 (IH, m, J = 7), 3.58 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.90 (IH, b), 6.65 (IH, s), 7.22 (IH, s). Description 67 2-Chloro-5-methyl-4-nitrophenol-O-trifluoromethane sulphonate (D67) A solution of 2-chloro-5-methyl-4-nitrophenol (M.E. Flaugh, T.A. Crowell, J.A. Clemens, B.D. Sawyer, . Med. Chem., 1979, 22, 63.) (10.2 g, 50 mmol) in pyridine (50 ml) was treated at 0° C with triflic anhydride (9.1 ml, 15.5 g, 55 mmol). The reaction mixture was warmed to room temperature over 2h, then added to ether and washed with 1M aqueous hydrochloric acid (3X), half-saturated brine (3X), brine and the ether solution dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated. Chromatography on silica eluting with 0-20% ethyl acetate in 40/60 petroleum ether afforded the product as a yellow crystalline solid (12.0g, 75%) NλlR (CDCL3) δ : 2.65 (3H, s), 7.40 (IH, s), and 8.20 (IH, s). Description 68 2-Chloro-5-methyl-4-nitrostyrene (D68) The titie compound (0.4g, 84%) was prepared by palladium (0) catalysed coupling of 2-cMo-ro-5-methyl-4-nitrophenol-O-trifluoromethane sulphonate and vinyltributyl tin, according to die method of Stille. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.60 (3H, s), 5.55 (IH, d, J = 12), 5.90 (IH, d, J = 16), 7.10 (IH, dd, J = 12, 16), 7.5 (IH, s), 8.05 (IH, s). M+ 197 m/e C9H8CINO2 requires 197 Description 69 2-Chloro-5-methyl-4-nitrobenzaldehyde (D69) A solution of 2-chloro-5-methyl-4-nitrostyrene (2.2g, 11.1 mmol) in dichloromethane (100 ml) was subjected to ozonolysis (-78° C, lh) followed by quenching of the intermediate ozonide with triphenyl phosphine (3.05g, 11.6 mmol). Chromatography of the crude mixture on silica eluting with 0-10% ethyl acetate in 60/80 pet ether afforded the product as a yellow crystalline solid (1.72g, 77%). NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.60 (3H, s), 7.90 (IH, s), 8.05 (IH, s), 10.50 (IH, s). Description 70 2-Chloro-5-methyl-4-nitrobenzoic acid (D70) A solution of 2-chloro-5-methyl-4-nitrobenzaldehyde (1.72g, 8.6 mmol) in acetic acid (20 ml) at 80° C was treated with sodium perborate (2.64g, 17.2 mmol). After 0.5 h a further portion of sodium perborate (1.32g, 8.6 mmol) was added. After 0.25h the reaction mixture was added to ethyl acetate - half saturated brine, and the organic extract dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated, affording die title product as a white solid (1.43g, 77%). NλlR (DMSO) δ : 2.50 (3H, s), 7.90 (IH, s), 8.15 (IH, s). Description 71 Methyl-6-chloroindole-5-carboxylate (D71) This was prepared (0.56g, 40%) from 2-chloro-5-methyl-4-nitrobenzoic acid by die Somei variation (Somei, M; Karasawa, Y; Shoda, T; Kaneko, C; Chem. Pharm. Bull. 1981, 29 (1), 249) of the Leimgruber indole synthesis. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 3.95 (3H, s), 6.55 (IH, m), 7.25 IH, m), 7.45 (IH, s), 8.20 (IH, s), 8.80 (IH, b s). Description 72 MethyI-6-chloroindoline-5-carboxylate (D72) A solution of methyl-6-chloroindole-5-carboxylate (0.73g, 3.5 mmol) in acetic acid (16 ml) was treated with sodium cyanoborohydride (2.07g, 32.7 mmol). After 4h the reaction mixture was partitioned between ethyl acetate - 10% aqueous sodium hydroxide. The organic extract was dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated affording a brown oil (0.6g). Chromatography on silica eluting with 0.2% methanol in dichloromethane afforded the title compound as a white solid (0.19g, 26%) NλlR (CDC1 3 ) δ : 3.00 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.65 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.85 (3H, s), 6.60 (IH, s), 7.65 (IH, s). Description 73 6-Chloro-5-iodoindole (D73) A mixture of 6-chloro-5-iodoindole and 4-chloro-5-iodoindole was prepared from 3- chloro-4-iodoaniline by the method of Sundberg. Chromatography and recrystallisation afforded d e titie compound (32g, 6% from the starting aniline). NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 6.45 (lH,m), 7.15 (IH, m), 7.55 (IH, s), 8.10 (IH, s). Description 74 6-Chloro-5-iodoindoline (D74) The title compound was prepared from the corresponding indole (D73) by reduction with sodium cyanoborohydride in acetic acid, giving the product as a brown oil (0.28g, 85%). NλlR (CDC13), 3.00 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.60 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.8 (IH, b s), 6.70 (IH, s), 7.45 (IH, s). Description 75 6-Bromoindole (D75) 4-Bromo-2-nitrotoluene was converted to the title compound by the method of Leimgruber (A.D. Batcho, W. Leimgruber, Organic Synthesis Collective Volume (Vm), P34). NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 6.5 (IH, m), 7.1 (IH, dd, J = 1,7), 7.20 (IH, m), 7.40 (IH, s), 7.55 (lH, d, J = 7), 8.16 (lH, b s). Description 76 6-Bromoindoline (D76) 6-Bromoindole (D75) was reduced widi sodium cyanoborohydride as in the method of Description 10 to yield die title compound (D76). NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.96 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.57 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.80 (IH, bs), 6.70 (IH, d, J = 1), 6.77 (IH, dd, J = 1, 7), 6.94 (IH, d, J = 7). Description 77 Di-[5-(6-bromoindolinyI)]disulphide (D77) Bromine (1.44 ml, 27.9 mmol) in methanol (50 ml) was added dropwise over 15 min to a mixture of 6-bromoindoline (D76) (5.16g, 26.06 mmol) and potassium thiocyanate (5.06g, 52.16 mmol) in methanol (100 ml) at -5-0° C. The mixture was warmed to room temperature and stirred for 1.5 hr then evaporated to dryness. The solid residue was treated with methanol (100 ml), water (100 ml) and 10% aqueous NaOH (100 ml) at room temperature for 4 hrs then partially evaporated under reduced pressure. Brine (100 ml) was added and d e mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (3 x 250 ml). The combined organic extracts were washed with brine then dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated to an oil which was chromatographed on silica using 30% ethyl acetate in petroleum ether as eluant to afford the tide compound (3.68g, 63%) as a yellow solid. N-MR (CDCI3) δ : 2.88 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.49 (2H, t, J = 8), 6.18 (IH, bs), 6.68 (IH, s), 7.13 (IH, s). Description 78 Di-[5-(l-acetyI-6-bromoindolinyl)]disulphide (D78) Acetic anhydride (1.52 ml, 16.1 mmol) in dichloromethane (20 ml) was added dropwise over 10 min to a mixture of the disulphide (D77) (3.68g, 8.03 mmol) and triethylamine (3 ml, 21.5 mmol) in dichloromethane (100 ml) at 0° C. The mixture was allowed to warm to room temperature and after 2 hr poured into 2.5 M aqueous HCl (150 ml). The aqueous was further extracted with dichloromethane (100 ml) and the organic layers were combined, dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated to a solid residue which was recrystallised from ethyl acetate to give the titie compound (2.77g, 63%) as an off-white solid. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.20 (3H, s), 3.12 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.06 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.39 (IH, s), 8.42 (IH, s). Description 79 l-Acetyl-6-bromo-5-mercaptoindoline (D79) A mixture of the diacetyl disulphide (D78) ( 1.5g, 2.76 mmol), triphenylphoφhine (1.05g, 4 mmol) and cone. HCl (2 drops) in dioxan (15 ml) and water (3 ml) was heated at reflux for 3hr then cooled and evaporated. The residue was partitioned between dichloromethane (100 ml) and 1% aqueous NaOH (150 ml). The aqueous phase was extracted witii another portion of dichloromethane (100 ml) then carefully acidified witii 5M aqueous HCl and extracted witii dichloromethane (3 x 100 ml). The combined organics were dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated to afford the title compound (0.9g, 60%) as a white solid. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.20 (3H, s), 3.11 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.90 (IH, s), 4.04 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.15 (IH, s), 8.41 (IH, s). Description 80 l-AcetyI-6-bro o-5-propylthioindoline (D80) A mixture of the thiol (D79) (O.lg, 0.37 mmol), anhydrous K2CO3 (0.056g, 0.41 mmol) and 1-iodopropane (0.04 ml, 0.41 mmol) in dry DMSO (10 ml) was heated at 90° C for 0.5 hr. The reaction mixture was cooled, poured into water (100 ml) and extracted witii dichloromethane (3 x 75ml). The combined organics were washed with water (150 ml), dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated to yield the titie compound (0.12g, 100%) as an off-white solid. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 0.98 (3H, t, J = 7), 1.61 (2H, m, J = 7), 2.13 (3H, s),2.79 (2H, t, J = 7), 3.07 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.00 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.05 (IH, s), 8.39 (IH, s). Description 81 l-Acetyl-6-bromo-5-ethylthioindoline (D81) The thiol (D79) (0.35g, 1.29 mmol) was treated with K2CO3 (0.20g, 1.45 mmol) and iodoethane (0.31 ml, 3.88 mmol) in DMSO (15 ml) at the 50° C as in the method of Description 80 to afford the title compound (0.39g, 100%) as a pale yellow solid. NλlR (CDC1 3 ) δ : 1.25 (3H, t, J = 7), 2.12 (3H, s), 2.82 (2H, q, J = 7), 3.06 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.98 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.06 (IH, s), 8.37 (IH, s). Description 82 l-Acetyl-6-bromo-5-methyUhioindoIine (D82) The thiol (D79) (0.35g, 1.29 mmol) was treated with K2CO3 (0.20g, 1.45 mmol) and iodometiiane (0.24 ml, 3.85 mmol) in DMSO (15 ml) at 50° C as in the method of Description 80 to afford the title compound (0.34g, 92%) as an off-white solid. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.12 (3H, s), 2.37 (3H, s), 3.08 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.99 (2H, t, J = 8), 6.92 (IH, s), 8.35 (IH, s). Description 83 6-Bromo-5-propylthioindoline (D83) The acetyl indoline (D80) (0.12g, 0.37 mmol) was treated with NaOH (1.1 lg, 27.75 mmol) in water (7 ml) and ethanol (4 ml) at reflux for 3 hrs. The reaction mixture was cooled, diluted witii water (50 ml) and extracted with dichloromethane (3 x 50 ml). The combined extracts were dried (Na2SO4) and evaporated to give the title compound (0.096g, 96%) as an oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 1.01 (3H, t, J = 7), 1.61 (2H, m, J = 7), 2.78 (2H, t J = 7), 2.98 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.59 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.82 (IH, bs), 6.86 (IH, s), 7.21 (IH, s). Description 84 6-Bromo-5-ethylthioindoline (D84) The acetyl indoline (D82) (0.38g, 1.27 mmol) was treated with NaOH (1.4g, 35 mmol) in water (9 ml) and ethanol (5 ml) as in the mediod of Description 83 to afford the titie compound (0.29g, 88%) as a yellow oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 1.26 (3H, t, J = 7), 2.82 (2H, q, J = 7), 2.98 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.59 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.83 (IH, bs), 6.86 (IH, s), 7.22 (IH, s). Description 85 6-Bromo-5-methyIthioindoline (D85) The acetyl indoline (D82) (0.33g, 1.15 mmol) was treated with NaOH (1.5g, 37.5 mmol) in water (9 ml) and ethanol (5 ml) as in the method of Description 83 to afford the title compound (0.26g, 92%) as an oil. NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.40 (3H, s), 2.98 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.58 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.80 (IH, bs), 6.84 (IH, s), 7.12 (IH, s). Example 1 5-Ethylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline (El) A solution of nicotinic acid azide (85mg, 0.56 mmol) in toluene (4 ml) was heated under reflux for 1.75h, then cooled. A solution of indoline D7 (0.10g, 0.56 mmol) in dichloromethane (4ml) was added, and die mixture was stirred overnight at room temperature. The mixture was then partially evaporated in vacua and a little petrol was added. The resulting precipitate was filtered off and recrystallised, firstly from dichloromethane petrol and then from ethanol/water to give the title compound (0.138g, 82%) mp 150-151°C. NλlR (D 6 DλlSO) δ: 1.18 (3H, t, J=7), 2.88 (2H, q, J=7), 3.18 (2H, t, J=8), 4.14 (2H, t, J=8), 7.14 (IH, d, J=8), 7.22 (IH, s), 7.32 (IH, dd, J=7,5), 7.81 (IH, d, J=8), 7.97 (IH, d, J=7), 8.22 (IH, d, J=5), 8.73 (2H, s) Found: C, 63.94; H, 5.71; N, 13.98% Ci6Hι 7 N 5 OS requires: C, 64.19; H, 5.72; N, 14.03% Example 2 6-Chloro-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridycarbamoyl)indoIine (E2) Nicotinoyl azide (0.11 lg, 0.75 mmol) was heated at reflux under Ar in dry toluene (8ml) for 45min, and cooled to ambient temperature. This solution was filtered, through a small cotton-wool plug, into a stirred solution of 6-chloro-5-methylindoline (D10) (0.105g, 0.63 mmol), with immediate precipitation. The suspension was stirred for 30min, and die solid was filtered off and dried in vacua at 60°C, giving the title compound (0.113g, 62%) as a white powder, m.p.221-222V*°C. NλlR (DλlSO-D 6 ) δ: 2.25 (3H, s), 3.15 (2H, t, J=8), 4.16 (2H, t, J=8),7.17 (IH, s), 7.33 (IH, dd, J=8, 4), 7.88 (IH, s), 7.98 (IH, dm), 8.23 (IH, dd, J=5,2), 8.75 (2H,m). Found: C, 62.6; H, 5.0; N, 14.6% C9H 10 C1N requires:C, 62.6; H, 4.9; N, 14.6% Found: M+ 287, 289, COHIQCIN requires:287, 289 Example 3 6-Chloro-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoIine and 4-chloro-5--methyl-l-(3- pyridylcarbamoyl)indoIine (E3) These were prepared, as a mixture, from the mixture of 6-chloro-5-methylindoline and 4-chloro-5-metiιylindoline (0.47g, 2.8 mmol), prepared as described in Description 11, following the procedure of Example 2. This gave a mixture of the title compounds (0.66g, 81%), in approximate proportions 2:1. 4-chloroisomer (as component of mixture), NλlR (DMSO-D6)δ: 2.26 (3H, s), 3.17 (2H, t, J=8), 4.19 (2H, t, J=8), 7.11 (IH, d, J=8), 7.32 (IH, dd, J=8, 4), 7.71 (IH, d, J=8), 7.98 (IH, m), 8.23 (IH, m), 8.74 (2H, m) λlixture:Found: C, 62.8; H, 5.0; N, 14.5% C9H 10 C1N requires C, 62.6; H, 4.9; N, 14.6% Found: M + 287, 289, C9H10CIN requires 287, 289. Example 4 5-(N,N-Dimethylaιmno)-l-(3-pyridylcarbaπιoyl) indoline (E4) 5-(N,N-dimethylamino)indoline (D13) (0.29g, 1.79 mmol) was added to solution of 3-pyridylisocyanate derived from nicotinoyl azide (0.52g, 1.2eq) heated at reflux in dry toluene for 1.5h. The solution was allowed to stand overnight evaporated under reduced pressure and purified by column chromatography (Siθ2, CHCl3 MeOH 2- 5%) to afford a pale blue oil which on trituration with Et2θ afforded a pale blue solid (550mg, 99%). NλlR (D 6 DλlSO) δ: 2.82 (6H, s), 3.14 (2H, t), 4.08 (2H, t), 6.53 (IH, dd), 6.68 (IH, d), 7.70 (IH, d), 7.98 (IH, dd), 8.20 (IH, m), 8.58 (IH, s), 8.72 (IH, d) Found: C, 65.56; H, 6.30; N, 19.25% Ci6H 18 N 4 O 2 / 3 H 2 O requires C, 65.31; H, 6.35; N, 19.05% Found: M + 282, C16H18N4O requires 282 Example 5 5-Iodo-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E5) The titie compound was prepared in 73% from nicotinic acid azide and 5- iodoindoline using a procedure similar to that for Example 1, m.p. 210-215° C. NλlR (D 6 -DMSO) δ 3.13 (2H, t, J 8), 4.08 (2H, t, J 8), 7.27 (IH, m), 7.40 (IH, m), 7.48 (IH, s), 7.63 (IH, d, J 8), 7.91 (IH, m), 8.17 (IH, m), 8.68 (2H, m). Found: C, 46.38; H, 3.49; N, 11.45% Cl4 H 12 N 3° l requires C, 46.05; H, 3.31; N, 11.51% Found: M + 365, C14H12N3OI requires 365 Example 6 5-Nitro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline hydrochloride This material was prepared from nicotinoyl azide (0.43g, 2.9 mmol) and 5- nitroindoline (0.38g, 2.3 mmol), and conversion of the precipitated urea to the salt using excess HCl in ether, following the procedure of Example 2. This gave the title compound (0.64 g, 76%) as a light yellow powder, m.p.244-7° C (dec.). NλlR (DMSO-d^) δ : 3.32 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.35 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.8-8.2 (4H, m), 8.5-8.65 (2H, m), 9.14 (IH, d, J = 2), 9.78 (IH, s). λLS. (CI.) QΛ Z) [M+H]+ = 285. Cχ H 12 N O3. HCl requires [M+H]+ = 285. Example 7 5-Methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline (E7) A solution of nicotinoyl azide (0.3g, 2.0mmol) in toluene (14ml) was heated under reflux for 1.25h. After cooling, a solution of indoline (D19, 0.32g, 1.9mmol) was added and die mixture was stirred at room temperature overnight The precipitate was filtered off, washed witii petrol and dried. Recrystallisation from 50% aqueous ethanol gave the title compound (0.43g, 77%), mp. 160-162° C NλlR (d6 - DMSO) δ 2.44 (3H, s), 3.18 (2H, t, J=8), 4.15 (2H, t, J=8), 7.08 (IH, d, J = 7), 7.19 (IH, s), 7.33 (IH, dd, J = 7,5), 7.82 (IH, d, J = 7), 7.98 (IH, d, J = 7), 8.22 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.74 (IH, s). Found: C, 63.03; H, 5.37; N, 14.58% Cχ5 H15 N3 OS requires C, 63.13; H, 5.30; N, 14.72% Example 8 5-(2-Propyl)-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E8) The title compound was prepared from D18 according to the procedure of example 2. In this case evaporation of dichloromethane from the final mixture was required to give a precipitate which was filtered off, washed with petrol and dried to give the product (0.485g, 45%), m.p. 163-165° C. NλlR (D 6 -DMSO) δ : 1.18 (6H, d, J = 7), 2.83 (IH, m, J = 7), 3.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.13 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.00 (IH, d, J = 7), 7.10 (IH, s), 7.32 (IH, dd, J = 7,5), 7.77 (IH, d, J = 7), 7.99 (IH, dm, J = 7), 8.22 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.69 (IH, s), 8.74 (IH, d, J = 2). Found: C, 72.14; H, 6.75; N, 15.12 % C17H19N3O requires C, 72.57; H, 6.81; N, 14.93 % Example 9 4,6-Dichloro-5-methyI-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoIine (E9) The titie compound was prepared from D22 and nicotinoyl azide according to Example 2. Amount Prep = lg (27%) (recryst DCM EtOH) Mpt - 234° C - 235° C NλlR (250 λlHz, DMSO d 6 ) δ H * 8 - 8 2 (s, IH, Ar), 8.7 (m, IH, Ar), 8.25 (d, IH, Ar, J = 5.2 Hz), 7.95 (m, IH, Ar), 7.32 (m, IH, Ar), 4.20 (t, 2H, J = 8Hz), 3.17 (t 2H, J = 8Hz), 2.32 (s, 3H, CH3) Analysis: Required % Found % C 55.92 55.89 H 4.07 4.16 N 13.04 13.16 M+ = 322, C15H13N3CI2O requires 322 Example 10 6-Fluoro-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E10) The titie compound was prepared from 6-fluoro-5-methylindoline (D24) and nicotinoyl azide using a procedure similar to that in Example 2. Recrystallisation from ethanol afforded the pure product, m.p.203-205° C. NλlR (D 6 -DλlSO) δ : 2.15 (3H, s), 3.15 (2H, t, J = 9), 4.18 (2H, t, J = 9), 7.08 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.35 (IH, m), 7.59 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.99 (IH, m), 8.23 (IH, m), 8.74 (2H, m). M+ 271, Ci5H 1 FN3θ requires 271 Example 11 and Example 12 6-Iodo-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoIine (Ell) 4-Iodo-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridyIcarbamoyI)indoline (E12) The title compounds were prepared from a mixture of 4-iodo-5-medιylindoline and 6- iodo-5-methylindoline (D26) and nicotinoyl azide using a procedure similar to that in Example 2. HPLC separation furnished a pure sample of each isomer. El 1: NλlR (D 6 -DMSO) δ : 2.32 (3H, s), 3.13 (2H, t, J = 9), 4.15 (2H, t, J = 9), 7.19 (IH, s), 7.33 (IH, m), 7.98 (IH, m), 8.23 (IH, m), 8.34 (IH, s), 8.73 (IH, m). E12: NλlR (D 6 -DMSO) δ : 2.33 (3H, s), 3.11 (2H, t, J = 9), 4.17 (2H, t, J = 9), 7.09 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.34 (IH, m), 7.76 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.97 (IH, m), 8.23 (IH, m), 8.71 (IH, s), 8.74 (IH, m). Example 13 and Example 14 6-Bromo-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E13) 4-Bromo-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E14) The titie compounds were prepared from a mixture of 4-bromo-5-methylindoline and 6-bromo-5-methylindoline (D28) and nicotinoyl azide using a procedure similar to Example 1, HPLC separation furnished a pure sample of each isomer. E13: NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.34 (3H, s), 3.20 (2H, t, J = 9), 4.12 (2H, t, J = 9), 6.42 (IH, b s), 7.04 (IH, s), 7.27 (IH, m), 8.11 (IH, m), 8.16 (IH, s), 8.35 (IH, m), 8.50 (IH, s). E14: NλlR (CDCI3) δ : 2.36 (3H, s), 3.27 (2H, t, J = 9), 4.15 (2H, t, J = 9), 6.45 (IH, b s), 7.09 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.28 (IH, m), 7.75 (IH, d, J = 8), 8.09 (IH, m), 8.32 (IH, m), 8.50 (IH, s). Example 15 5-Phenyl-l-(3-pyridyIcarbamoyl)indoline (E15) The titie compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) from 3-pyridyl isocyanate and 5-phenylindoline (D30) to give (E15) (0.73g, 52%) m.p. 241-2° C. NλlR (DλISO-d6) δ : 3.25 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.19 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.23 - 7.69 (8H, m), 7.89-8.03 (2H, m), 8.09-8.13 (IH, m), 8.75-8.80 (2H, m). MH+ 316, C20H17N3O H+ requires 316 Example 16 4,5-Dichloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E16) The tide compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) from 3- pyridylisocyanate and 4,5-dichloroindoline (D32) to give (E16) (0.5g, 25%) m.p. > 240° C. NλlR (DMSO-d6) δ : 3.28 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.21 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.30-7.42 (2H, m), 7.80 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.92-7.98 (IH, m), 8.20-8.24 (IH, m), 8.72 (IH, s), 8.82 (IH, s). Example 17 6,7-Dichloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E17) The titie compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) from 3- pyridylisocyanate and 6,7-dichloroindoline (D34) to give (E17) (0.84g, 46%) m.p. 178-180° C. NλlR (DMSOdg) δ: 3.11 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.19 (2H, t J = 8), 7.21 - 7.35 (3H, m), 7.89- 7.94 (IH, m), 8.09-8.12 (IH, m), 8.70 (IH, s), 9.68 (IH, s). Example 18 5-ChIoro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E18) The titie compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) from 3-pyridyl- isocyanate and 5-chloroindoline (D35) to give (El 8) (1.4g, 82%) m.p. 204-5° C. NλlR (DλlSO-d6) δ : 3.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.15 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.15-7.18 (IH, m), 7.25 (IH, s), 7.27-7.35 (IH, m), 7.85 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.93-8.00 (IH, m), 8.19-8.24 (IH, m), 8.70-8.80 (2H, m) Example 19 6-Chloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E19) The title compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) from 3-pyridyl- isocyanate and 6-chloroindoline (D36) to give (E19) (1.54g, 73%) m.p. 204-5° C. NλlR (DλlSO-ds) δ : 3.19 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.19 (2H, t, J = 8), 6.93-6.99 (IH, m), 7.23 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.31-7.38 (IH, m), 7.88 (IH, s), 7.94-8.02 (IH, m), 8.24 (IH, d, J = 6), 8.72 (IH, s), 8.82 (IH, s). Found: C, 61.34; H, 4.60; N, 15.38 C14H12N3O CI requires: C, 61.43; H, 4.42; N, 15.35 Example 20 5,6-Dichloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E20) The title compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) from 3- pyridylisocyanate and 5,6-dichloroindoline (D39) to give (E20) (1.27g, 65%) m.p. 236-238° C. N-λlR (DλlS d 6 ) δ : 3.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.21 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.28-7.35 (IH, m), 7.47 (IH, s), 7.92-7.99 (IH, m), 8.00 (IH, s), 8.23 (IH, d, J = 6), 8.70 (IH, s), 8.83 (IH, s). Found: C, 54.59; H, 3.81; N, 13.60 c 14 H ll N 3°Cl2 requires: C, 54.57; H, 3.60; N, 13.64 Example 21 5-(3-Thienyl)-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoIine (E21) The titie compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) form 3- pyridylisocyanate and 5-(3-Thienyl)indoline (D41) to give (E21) (0.89g, 56%) m.ρ. 215-217° C NλlR (DλlSO-d6) δ : 3.22 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.19 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.29-7.36 (IH, m), 7.49- 7.62 (4H, m), 7.73 (IH, s), 7.89 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.95-8.04 (IH, m), 8.19-8.27 (IH, m), 8.73 (2H, s). λlH + 322 Ci 8 H 15 N3OS.H+ requires 322 Example 22 5-TrifluoromethyI-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E22) The tide compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) from 3- pyridylisocyanate and 5-trifluoromethylindoline (D43) to give (E22) (0.12g, 38%) m.p. 188-189° C. NλlR (DλlSO-d ) δ : 3.28 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.22 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.31-7.37 (IH, m), 7.47- 7.57 (2H, m), 7.95-8.03 (2H, m), 8.24 (IH, d, J = 6), 8.75 (IH, s), 8.90 (IH, s). λlH + 308 Ci5H 12 N OF3 H+ requires 308 Example 23 5-Chlor -6-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbaιnoyl)indoline (E23) The titie compound was prepared as in the method of (Example 2) from 3- pyridylisocyanate and 5-chloro-6-methylindoline (D45) to give (E23) (0.76g, 73%) m.p. 217-218° C. NλlR (DMSO-d6) δ : 2.27 (3H, s), 3.13 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.13 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.21 (IH, s), 7.29-7.37 (IH, m), 7.82 (IH, s), 7.93-7.99 (IH, m), 8.22 (IH, d, J = 6), 8.73 (IH, s). Found: C, 62.61; H, 5.02; N, 14.38 C15H14N3OCI requires: C, 62.61; H, 4.90; N, 14.60 Example 24 6-Chloro-5-methyI-l-(2-methyl-4-quinolyI-l-carbamoyI)indoline (E24) A solution of carbonyl diimidazole (0.41g, 2.5 mmol) in dichloromethane (30 ml) was treated with 2-methyl-4-amino-quinoline (0.37g, 2.4 mmol). The mixture was warmed to 30° C for 5 minutes then stirred at room temperature for 0.5 h. Evaporation afforded a yellow solid which was dissolved in N,N-dimethylformamide (10 ml) and treated with a solution of 6-chloro-5-methyl-indoline (D10) (0.36g, 2.2 mmol) in N,N-dimetiιylformamide (10 ml). The mixture was heated to 100° C for 0.75 h, cooled to room temperature then added to water with vigorous stirring. Filtration and drying afforded the crude product as a yellow solid. (0.45g). Recrystallisation from ethanol afforded the titie compound as a yellow solid (0.35g, 46%), m.p. > 230° C. NλlR (DMSO) δ : 2.25 (3H, s), 2.65 (3H, s), 3.15 (2H, m), 4.35 (2H, m), 7.20 (IH, bs), 7.55 (IH, m), 7.70 (2H, m), 7.90 (2H, m), 8.15 (IH, m), 8.85 (IH, b s). M+ 351 C2 H18CIN3O requires 351 Found: C, 68.16; H, 5.34; N, 11.99 C2θH 18 ClN 3 O requires: C, 68.27; H, 5.16; N, 11.94. Example 25 6-Chloro-5-methyl-l-(4-pyridyl-carbamoyl)indoIine (E25) The titie compound was prepared as a white solid from 4-aminopyridine and 6- chlOT -5-methyl-indoline (DIO) by the same method as for (Example 24), (0.50g, 86%) m.p, > 230° C. NλlR (DMSO) δ : 2.25 (3H, s), 3.15 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.13 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.20 (IH, s), 7.60 (2H, d, J = 7), 7.85 (IH, s), 8.35 (2H, d, J = 7), 8.90 (IH, s). M+ 287 Ci5H 1 ClN3O requires 287 Example 26 6-Chloro-5-methyl-l-(5-quinolylcarbamoyl)indoIine (E26) The tide compound was prepared as a white solid from 5-aminoquinoline and 6- chloro-5-methyl-indoline (D10) by the same method as for (Example 24), (0.15g, 21%) NλlR (DMSO) δ : 2.25 (3H, s), 3.20 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.30 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.20 (IH, s), 7.50-7.60 (2H, m), 7.75 (IH, t, J = 7), 7.85 (IH, s), 7.95 (IH, d, J = 7), 8.40 (IH, d, J = 7), 8.90 (2H, m). λlH+ 338 Ci9Hι 6 ClN3θ requires 337 Example 27 6-Chloro-5-methyl-l-(3-methyl-5-isoxazolylcarbamoyl)indoline (E27) A solution of 3-amino-5-methyl-isoxazole (0.23g, 2.4 mmol) in N,N- dimethylformamide (4 ml) was treated at 0° C with sodium hydride (70 mg of 80% dispersion; 2.4 mmol). After 0.25h the mixture was added dropwise to a solution of carbonyl diimidazole (0.4 lg, 2.5 mmol) in N,N-dimethylfσrmamide (4 ml), and after 5 mins the resulting solution was added to a solution of 6-chloro-5-methyl indoline (D10) (0.36g, 2.2 mmol) in N,N-dimethylformamide (4 ml). The mixture was heated at 100° C for lh, allowed to cool to room temperature, then treated witii 0.1 M aqueous hydrochloric acid (30 ml). Filtration and drying afforded a brown solid (0.5 g). Recrystallisation from ethanol gave the titie compound as a white solid (0.40g, 64%) m.p. > 220° C, NλlR (DMSO) δ :2.20 (3H, s), 2.30 (3H, s), 3.15 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.15 (2H, t, J = 8), 6.05 (IH, s), 7.20 (IH, s), 7.75 (IH, s), 10.35 (IH, s). M + 291 C14H14CIN3O2 requires 291 Found: C, 57.73; H, 4.98; N, 14.53 Ci4H 14 ClN3θ2 requires C, 57.64; H, 4.84; N, 14.40 Example 28 5-(N^-Dimethylamino)-l-(2-methyI-4-quinoIinyIcarbaιnoyl)indoIine (E28) N-Acetyl-5-(N, N-dimethylamino)indoline (D46) (l.Og, 4.9mmol) and cone. HCl (lml) were heated over a stream batii for 0.75h, basified with solid K2CO3 and dien extracted witii chloroform (100ml). The extracts were died (Na2SO4) and evaporated under reduced pressure. The residue was chromatographed on silica gel using 5-10% methanol in ethylacetate as eluent to afford 5-N,N-dimethylaminoindoline (0.69g, 87%) which was used immediately in the next step. Carbonyl diimidazole (1.97g, 1 lmmol) in dry dichloromethane (40ml) was stirred as 4-aminoqunialdine (1.75g, 1 lmmol) was added to give a bright yellow precipitate. After 30min, the suspension was evaporated to dryness and die residue dissolved in dry DλlF (40ml). The indoline (D46) (1.79g, 1 lmmol) was added followed by triethylamine (1.55ml, 1 lmmol) and the mixture was heated to 90°C for lh then left overnight at room temperature. Water (70ml) was added and the resulting precipitate filtered off and extracted witii 20% MeOH/CHCl3. These extracts were washed with aqueous NaHCC»3, dried (Na2SO4), evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure and purified by chromatography on silica gel using 2-10% methanol in chloroform to afford the title compound (4.18g, 100%) as a pale yellow solid m.p.252-253°C. H NλlR (D 6 DλlSO) δ: 2.84 (6H, s, NMe 2 ), 3.18 (2H, t), 3.38 (3H, s), 4.30 (2H, t), 6.54 (IH, d), 6.70 (IH, s), 7.50 (IH, t), 7.71 (3H, m), 7.89 (IH, d), 8.13 (IH, d), 8.65 (1H. NH amide). Found: C, 72.72; H, 6.45; N, 16.24% C21H22N4O requires: C, 72.81; H, 6.40; N, 16.17% Example 29 6-Chloro-5-methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E29) 6-Chloro-5-methylthioindoline (D48) (0.70g, 3.5 lmmol) was treated witii 3- pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The crude product was recrystallised from ethanol diethyl ether to give the titie compound (0.9 lg, 81%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. 241-242°C. NλlR (D 6 DλlSO) δ: 2.48 (3H, s), 3.22 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.22 (IH, s), 7.33 (IH, dd, J = 9 & 5), 7.91 (IH, s), 7.98 (IH, d, J = 9), 8.23 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.74 (IH, m), 8.80 (IH, s). Found: C, 56.31; H, 4.56; N, 13.11% Ci5H 1 N 3 OSα requires:C, 56.33; H, 4.41; N, 13.14% Example 30 4-Chloro-5-methylthio-l-(3-pyridyIcarbamoyl)indoline (E30) 4-Chloro-5-methyldiioindoline (D49) (0.9g, 4.5 lmmol) was treated witii 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The crude product was filtered-off and recrystallised from ethanol to give the title compound (1.22g, 84%) as a white crystalline solid m.p.237-241 °C. NλlR (D 6 -DλlSO) δ: 2.43 (3H, s), 3.20 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.20 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.14 (IH, d, J = 7), 7.34 (IH, dd, J = 9 & 5), 7.83 (IH, d, J = 7), 8.98 (IH, d, J = 7), 8.24 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.73 (IH, m), 8.78 (IH, s). Found: C, 55.86; H, 4.54; N, 13.11% Cl5Hi4N3θSCl requires:C, 56.33; H, 4.41; N, 13.14% Example 31 5-Bromo-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoIine (E31) 5-Bromoindoline (D50) (0.5g, 2.5mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the method of Example 1. The product was filtered-off and recrystallised from methanol/ ater to afford die titie compound (0.58g, 72%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. 220°C. NλlR (D 6 -DMSO) δ: 3.21 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.27 - 7.38 (2H, m), 7.40 (IH, s), 7.81 (IH, d, J = 8), 7.97 (IH, d, J = 8), 8.23 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.73 (IH, m), 8.79 (IH, s). Example 32 6-Chloro-5-ethyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoIine (E32) 6-Chloro-5-ethylindoline (D52) (0.42g, 2.33mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The crude product was recrystallised from ethanol/dietiiyl ether to give the tide compound (0.42g, 59%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. = 227°C. N-MR (D6 DMSO) δ: 1.13 (3H, t, J = 8), 2.62 (2H, q, J = 8), 3.17 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.16 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.18 (IH, s), 7.33 (IH, m), 7.87 (IH, s), 7.99 (IH, d, J = 9), 8.23 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.73 (IH, m), 8.79 (IH, s). Found: C, 63.52; H, 5.43; N, 14.06% requires: C, 63.68; H, 5.34; N, 13.92% Example 33 6-Chloro-5-propyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E33) 6-Chloro-5-propylindoline (D54) (57mg, 0.3mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The crude product was recrystallised from ethanol/diethyl ether to give the titie compound as a white crystalline solid m.p. = 218-220°C NMR (D 6 DλlSO) δ: 1.00 (3H, t, J = 8), 1.66 (2H, q, J = 8), 2.70 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.27 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.26 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.25 (IH, s), 7.42 (IH, m), 7.98 (IH, s), 8.08 (IH, d, J = 8), 8.32 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.83 (IH, m), 8.89 (IH, s). Example 34 6-Chloro-5-terr-butyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E34) 6-Chloro-5-terf-butylindoline (D56) (0.21 g, l.Olmmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The product was recrystallised from ethanol/diethyl ether to give the title compound (0.12g, 35%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. = 200°C. NMR (D6 DMSO ) δ: 1.40 (9H, s), 3.15 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.15 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.30 (IH, s), 7.33 (IH, m), 7.85 (IH, s), 7.98 (IH, d, J = 9), 8.22 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.73 (IH, m), 8.78 (IH, s). Found: C, 65.13; H, 6.03; N, 13.15% C18H20N3OCI requires: C, 65.55; H, 6.11; N, 12.74% Example 35 4-Chloro-5-ferf-butyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E35) 4-Chloro-5-rerr-butylindoline (D57) (0.45g, 3.04mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The product was recrystallised from ethanol/diethyl ether to give the title compound (0.46g, 58%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. = 174-176°C. NλlR (D 6 DMSO ) δ: 1.42 (9H, s), 3.21 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.19 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.25 (IH, d, J =7), 7.33 (IH, m), 7.70 (IH, d, J = 7), 7.99 (IH, d, J = 9), 8.22 (IH, d, 5), 8.77 (2H, m). Found: C, 65.28; H, 6.07; N, 12.92% C18H20N3OCI requires: C, 65.55; H, 6.11; N, 12.74%. Example 36 6-Chloro-5-isopropyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyI)indoline (E36) 6-Chlαro-5-isopropylindoline (D58) (0.4g, 2.05mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The product was recrystallised from ethanol/diethyl ether to give the title compound (0.36g, 57%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. = 183-185°C. NMR (D 6 DMSO ) δ: 1.19 (6H, d, J = 8), 2.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.23 (IH, m, J = 8), 4.15 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.24 (IH, s), 7.33 (IH, m), 7.86 (IH, s), 7.98 (IH, d, J = 9), 8.22 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.73 (IH, m), 8.78 (IH, s). Found: C, 64.49; H, 5.78; N, 13.49% Cι 7 H 18 N 3 θα requires: C, 64.66; H, 5.75; N, 13.31% Example 37 6-Chloro-5-vinyl-l-(3-pyridyIcarbamoyI)indoline (E37) 6-Chloro-5-vinylindoline (D62) (0.13g, crude) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The crude product was recrystalised from ethanol/diethyl ether to give the title compound (22mg) as a yellow crystalline solid m.p. 195-200°C. NλlR (D 4 MeOD) δ: 3.20 (2H, t, J = 7), 4.18 (2H, t, J = 7), 5.25 (IH, d, J = 10), 5.68 (IH, d, J = 10), 7.00 (IH, m), 7.36 (3H, m), 7.90 (IH, s), 8.00 (2H, m). Example 38 6-Chloro-5-ethylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E38) 6-Chloro-5-ethylthioindoline (D64) (0.18g, 0.85mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The crude product was recrystallised from ethanol/diethyl ether to give the titie compound (0.14g, 48%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. = 225-226°C. NλlR (D MeOD) δ: 1.25 (3H, t, J = 7), 2.90 (2H, q, J = 7), 3.20 (2H, t, J = 7), 4.15 (2H, t, J = 7), 7.24 (IH, s), 7.37 (IH, m), 7.95 (IH, s), 8.02 (IH, d, J = 8), 8.20 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.67 (IH, s). Example 39 6-Chloro-5-isopropylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E29) 6-Chloro-5-isopropylthioindoline (D66) (0.35g, 1.52mmol) was treated widi 3- pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The crude product was recrystallised from ethanol/diethyl ether to give the title compound (0.33g, 61%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. 199-201°C. NλlR (DMSO D 6 ) δ: 1.25 (6H, d, J = 7), 3.20 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.41 (IH, m, J = 7), 4.20 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.35 (IH, m), 7.40 (IH, s), 7.96 (IH, s), 8.00 (IH, m), 8.26 (IH, d, J = 5), 8.75 (IH, m), 8.86 (IH, s). Example 40 Methyl-6-chloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)-indoIine-5-carboxylate (E40) This was prepared as a white crystalline solid (0.17g, 57%) from methyl-6- chloroindoline-5-carboxylate using the same method as for Example 2 m.p. >210° C, NλlR (DMSO) δ : 3.20 (2H, t, J = 8), 3.80 (3H, s), 4.25 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.35 (IH, m), 7.70 (IH, s), 7.95 (IH, s), 7.80 (IH, m), 8.25 (IH, m), 8.75 (IH, d, J = 2), 8.95 (IH, s). m.e. 331 C16H14N3O3CI requires 331 Found: C, 57.82; H, 4.35; N, 12.63 C16H14N3O3CI requires C, 57.93; H, 4.25; N, 12.67 Example 41 6-Chloro-5-iodo-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)-indoline (E41) This was prepared from 6-chloro-5-iodoindoline (D10) using the general method as for (Example 2), giving the title compound as a white crystalline solid, m.p. >200° C. NλlR (DMSO) δ : 3.15 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.20 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.35 (IH, m), 7.75 (IH, s), 7.95 (IH, m), 8.00 (IH, s), 8.25 (IH, m), 8.70 (IH, m), 8.85 (IH, s). m/e 399 C14H11CIIN3O requires 399 Example 42 6-Chloro-5-methyl-l-(5-bromo-3-pyridylcarbamoyI)-indoline (E42) The title compound was prepared from 5-bromo-nicotinoyl azide and 6-chloro-5- methyl indoline (D10) using the same procedure as for Example 2, affording die product as a white solid (0.47g, 85%) m/e 366 Ci5Hi3BrClN3θ requires 366 Found: C, 49.22; H, 3.74; N, 11.45 Ci5Hi3BrClN 3 O requires C, 49.14; H, 3.57; N, 11.46 Example 43 6-Bromo-5-propylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E43) 6-Bromo-5-propylthioindoline (D83) (0.095g, 0.35 mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The product was recrystallised from ethanol/diethyl ether to give the tide compound (0.089 g, 65%) as a white crystalline solid m.p.224-226° C. NλlR φβ DMSO) δ : 1.00 (3H, t, J = 7), 1.59 (2H, sextuplet, J = 7), 2.91 (2H, t, J = 7), 3.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.29 (IH, s), 7.34 (IH, dd, J = 4, 7), 7.98 (IH, d, J = 7), 8.10 (IH, s), 8.24 (IH, d, J - 4), 8.73 (IH, m), 8.82 (IH, s). Example 44 6-Bromo-5-ethylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E44) 6-Bromo-5-ethylthioindoline (D84) (0.28g, 1.09 mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The product was recrystallised from ethanol/ diethyl ether to yield the -title compound (0.29g, 70%) as an off-white crystalline solid m.p. 226-227° C. NλlR φβ DλlSO) δ : 1.24 (3H, t, J = 7), 2.95 (2H, q, J = 7), 3.19 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.29 (IH, s), 7.34 (IH, dd, J = 4, 7), 7.98 (IH, d, J = 7), 8.11 (IH, s), 8.23 (IH, d, J = 4), 8.73 (IH, m), 8.82 (IH, s). Example 45 6-Bromo-5-methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline (E45) 6-Bromo-5-methylthioindoline (D85) (0.26g, 1.06 mmol) was treated with 3-pyridylisocyanate as in the procedure described in Example 1. The product was recrystallised from ethanol to afford the title compound (0.27g, 71%) as a white crystalline solid m.p. 242-244° C. NλlR φβ DMSO) δ : 2.47 (3H, s), 3.19 (2H, t, J = 8), 4.18 (2H, t, J = 8), 7.19 (IH, s), 7.34 (IH, dd, J = 4,7), 7.97 (IH, d, J = 7), 8.09 (IH, s), 8.24 (IH, d, J = 4), 8.73 (IH, m), 8.81 (IH, s). Example 46 Pharmaceutical compositions for oral administration may be prepared by combining the following: 1) Solid Dosage Formulation % w/w Compound of formula 1 10% Magnesium stearate 0.5% Starch 2.0% HPM cellulose 1.0% Microcrystalline cellulose 86.5% The mixture may be compressed to tablets, or filled into hard gelatin capsules. The tablet may be coated by applying a suspension of film former (e.g. HPM cellulose), pigment (e.g. titanium dioxide) and plasticiser (e.g. diethyl phthalate) and drying the film by evaporation of the solvent The film coat can comprise 2.0% to 6.0% of the tablet weight, preferably about 3.0%. 2) Capsule %w/w Compound of formula 1 20% Polyetiiylene glycol 80% The medicinal compound is dispersed or dissolved in the liquid carrier, with a thickening agent added, if required. The formulation is then enclosed in a soft gelatin capsule by suitable technology. Example 44 A pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration may be prepared by combining the following: Preferred Level Compound of formula 1 1.0% Saline 99.0% The solution is sterilised and sealed in sterile containers. Pharmacological data [ 3 H]-mesulergine binding to rat or human 5-HT2C clones expressed in 293 cells in vitro Compounds were tested following the procedure outlined in WO 94/04533. The compounds of examples 1 to 42 have pKi values of 6.1 to 8.7. Reversal of MCPP-induced Hypolocomotion Compounds were tested following the procedure outlined in WO 94/04533. The compounds of examples 2, 29, 38 and 40 have π->50' s of 0.6 to 15.9 mg kg p.o. Geller Seifter Procedure The compound of example 2 was tested following the procedure outlined in WO 94/04533. The compound showed a significant increase in punished responding in the dose range 0.5 - 10 mg/kg p.o.

Claims: Claims: 1. A compound of formula (I) or a salt thereof: wherein: P represents phenyl, a quinoline or isoquinoline residue, or a 5-membered or 6-membered aromatic heterocyclic ring containing up to three heteroatoms selected from nitrogen, oxygen or sulphur, R 1 is hydrogen, Cχ.6 alkyl, halogen, CF3, NR 7 R 8 or OR 9 where R 7 , R 8 and R 9 are independently hydrogen, C\.β alkyl or arylCi.galkyl; R2 is hydrogen or C\.β alkyl; R3 is C\.β alkyl; n is 0 to 3; m is 0 to 4; and R4 groups are independently C\.β alkyl optionally substituted by one or more halogen atoms, C2-6 alkenyl, C2-6 alkynyl, C3.6 cycloalkyl, C3.6 cycloalkyl- Cι_6 alkyl, Cχ_6 alkylthio, C3_6cycloalkylthio, C3.6 cycloalkylCι_6 alkylthio, halogen, nitro, CF3, OCF3 } SCF3, SO2CF3, SO2F, formyl, C2-6 alkanoyl, cyano, optionally substituted phenyl or thienyl, NR 7 R 8 , CONR 7 R 8 , or OR 9 where R 7 , R 8 and R 9 are as defined for R*, CC^R*® where R*0 is hydrogen or Cχ.6 alkyl. 2. A compound according to claim 1 in which R* is hydrogen 3. A compound according to claim 1 or 2 in which R^ and R 3 are hydrogen. 4. A compound according to any one of claims 1 to 3 in which R^ is Ci.galkyl or Cχ.6alkylthio and n is 2. 5. A compound according to claim 4 in which P is pyridine. 6. A compound according to claim 1 which is: 5-Ethylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline, 6-(^oro-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridycart)amoyl) doline, 6-Chloro-5-methyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline and 4-chlσro-5-methyl- 1 -(3- pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-(N-^-Dimethylamino)-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline, 5-Iodo- l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Nitro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline, 5-Methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl) indoline, 5-(2-Isoropyl)-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4,6--DicWoro-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Fluoro-5-methyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Iodo-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4-Iodo-5-methyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Bromo-5-methyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4-Bromo-5-methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Phenyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4,5--Dichloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6,7-Dichloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Chloro- l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5,6-Dichloro-l-(3-pyridylcaj-bamoyl)indoline, 5-(3-Thienyl)-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Trifluoromethyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-CMo-ro-6^methyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-CWoro-5-methyl-l-(2-methyl-4-quinolyl-l-carbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-methyl- l-(4-pyridyl-carbamoyl)indoline, 6-<_Moro-5-methyl-l-(5-quinolylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-C.Moro-5-rnethyl-l-(3-methyl-5-isoxazolylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-(N,N-Dimethylamino)- 1 -(2-methyl-4-quinolinylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-CMoro-5-methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4-CMoro-5-methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 5-Bromo- l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-CMoro-5-ethyl-l-(3-pyridylc--rbamoyl)indoline, 6^CWoι-o-5-propyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-CWoro-5-tert-butyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 4-CMoro-5-tert-butyl-l-(3-pyridylcartjamoyl)indoline, 6-CMoro-5-isopropyl-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-vinyl- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-ethylthio- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Chloro-5-isopropylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, Methyl-6-cMo-ro-l-(3-pyridylcaitamoyl)-indoline-5-carboxylate, 6-Chloro-5-iodo- 1 -(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)-indoline, 6-Chloro-5-methyl- 1 -(5-bromo-3-pyridylcarbamoyl)-indoline, 6-Bromo-5-propylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Bromo-5-ethylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, 6-Bro-mo-5-methylthio-l-(3-pyridylcarbamoyl)indoline, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. 7. A compound according to any one of claims 1 to 6 for use in therapy. 8. A pharmaceutical composition which comprises a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 6 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient 9. A process for the preparation of a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, which process comprises: the coupling of a compound of formula (II); R ^ -A (ll) with a compound of formula (III); wherein n, m and P are as defined in formula (I), A and B contain the appropriate functional group(s) necessary to form the moiety --NR 2 CO when coupled, the variables R 1 ', R 2 ', R 3 ' and R 4 ' are R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 respectively, as defined in formula (I), or groups convertible thereto, and thereafter optionally and as necessary and in any appropriate order, converting any R 1 ', R 2 ', R 3 ' and R 4 ' , when other than R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 respectively to R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 , interconverting R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , and R 4 and forming a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. 10. A method of treatment or prophylaxis of CNS and GI disorders which comprises administering to a sufferer a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formula (I) as defined in claim 1 or a pharmacuetically acceptable salt thereof

Inventors: FORBES IAN THOMSON, HAM PETER, JONES GRAHAM ELGIN, FORBES, IAN, THOMSON, HAM, PETER, JONES, GRAHAM, ELGIN
Applicants: FORBES IAN THOMSON, HAM PETER, JONES GRAHAM ELGIN, SMITHKLINE BEECHAM PLC, FORBES, IAN, THOMSON, HAM, PETER, JONES, GRAHAM, ELGIN
Application year: 1994
Main classification: C07D401
IPC codes: A61K31, A61P1, A61P25, A61P43, C07D401, C07D413